Replaces the coastal resources management council with a state department of coastal resources and transfers all of the powers and duties between the two (2) authorities.
The legislation will directly affect the framework of coastal management in Rhode Island, transferring all powers and duties from the existing council to the newly formed department. This includes the authority to issue permits for various coastal activities, enforce regulations concerning coastal wetlands, and manage dredging practices. Such changes are expected to streamline operations and improve responsiveness to coastal resource management, which supporters argue will lead to better environmental and economic outcomes for coastal communities.
Bill S2928 proposes to replace the current Coastal Resources Management Council with a new State Department of Coastal Resources. This transition is aimed at enhancing the management and protection of Rhode Island's coastal resources by centralizing these functions within a dedicated state department. The bill emphasizes the state's responsibility to manage and protect coastal areas, ensuring sustainable use while preserving public interests, such as fisheries and recreational access, but raising the potential for conflicts with local entities regarding land use decisions.
Despite its potential benefits, Bill S2928 faces concerns regarding possible overreach and the centralization of authority. Critics worry that transferring these responsibilities to a state-level body may diminish the ability of local governments and stakeholders to influence coastal resource decisions, particularly in instances where local needs may differ from state interests. This tension highlights a broader debate on local control versus state oversight in resource management.
The bill also allocates the creation of a marine resources development plan aimed at improving the health of Rhode Island’s marine ecosystem and designates the new department as the lead agency for dredging in tidal waters. These strategic elements are meant to ensure that coastal management aligns with both environmental sustainability and the economic needs of the state, reflecting an integrated approach to resource management.