Rhode Island 2024 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H8008

Introduced
3/5/24  

Caption

Limits the governor to one thirty (30) day renewal of a declaration of emergency without a joint resolution of the general assembly.

Impact

The proposed changes in HB 8008 can significantly alter the management of disaster responses within the state. By requiring legislative approval for longer emergency durations, the bill aims to ensure that the governor cannot unilaterally extend emergency situations indefinitely. This shift is intended to provide checks and balances within the state government, enhancing transparency and accountability in how emergency powers are exercised. Proponents argue that it will prevent potential abuses of power during crises.

Summary

House Bill 8008 seeks to amend existing statutes relating to emergency management, specifically limiting the governor's authority in declaring and renewing a state of disaster emergency. Under the proposed bill, the governor would be allowed to declare a state of emergency for a maximum of thirty days, with a provision for a one-time renewal of an additional thirty days. Any further extensions would require a joint resolution from the general assembly, thereby introducing a system of legislative oversight over emergency declarations.

Contention

The bill has sparked discussions regarding the balance between the need for swift executive action during emergencies and the necessity for legislative oversight. Supporters believe that the bill is essential for curbing excessive executive power, especially given the expansive actions taken under previous emergency declarations. Conversely, critics argue that the requirement for legislative involvement may delay necessary responses during urgent situations, potentially hindering effective disaster management and response efforts.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0127

Emergency Management

RI H5565

Hotels And Public Places

RI S0296

Hotels And Public Places

RI H5884

Hotels And Public Places

RI H5972

Concurrent Resolution Terminating The Current Declaration Of State Emergency And All Executive Orders Commencing On February 9, 2023, Through March 11, 2023

RI H5056

Concurrent Resolution Terminating The Current Declaration Of State Emergency And All Executive Orders Commencing On January 11, 2023, Through February 9, 2023

RI H5019

Concurrent Resolution Terminating The Current Declaration Of State Emergency And All Executive Orders Commencing On December 12, 2022, Through January 10, 2023

RI H5126

Joint Resolution To Approve, Publish And Submit To The Electors A Proposition Of Amendment To The Constitution Of The State -- Four Year Terms And Term Limits For Representatives And Senators (proposes An Amendment To The State Constitution, Article Iv, To Allow For Term Limits For The General Assembly Members.)

RI S0276

Joint Resolution To Amend The Medicaid Section 1115 Demonstration Waiver Requests And Renewals (this Joint Resolution Would Approve An Amendment To Medicaid Section 1115 Demonstration Waiver Requests And Renewals.)

RI H5517

Organization Of General Assembly

Similar Bills

CA AB2212

California Emergency Services Act: state of emergency: Governor’s powers.

CA AB1044

Office of Emergency Services: COVID-19 Pandemic after-action report.

CA AB1075

State of emergency: Governor’s powers and termination.

CA AB1687

California Emergency Services Act: Governor’s powers: suspension of statutes and regulations.

CA SB699

San Francisco Bay Area regional water system.

CA AB2767

California Community Colleges: funding formula: study.

HI SB2512

Relating To Emergency Management Powers.

CA SB487

Tobacco Education and Research Oversight Committee.