Rhode Island House Bill H5727

Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/26/25
• Refer: 2/26/25

Caption

Requires the director of the Rhode Island emergency management agency and the Rhode Island commerce commission to develop and implement a plan to assist businesses in obtaining flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance program.

Impact

The bill's enactment would facilitate access to flood insurance for businesses, thereby contributing to the resilience of local economies in Rhode Island. By providing a structured approach to securing flood insurance, the bill aims to mitigate financial losses associated with flooding events. The implications of this legislation are significant for businesses located in flood-prone areas, enhancing their preparedness and response capabilities in emergency situations.

Summary

House Bill 5727 seeks to amend Rhode Island's laws governing emergency management by requiring the director of the Rhode Island emergency management agency and the Rhode Island commerce commission to collaborate in developing and implementing a plan to assist businesses in obtaining flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance program. This initiative is particularly relevant given the state's vulnerability to flooding and aims to provide businesses with greater security in the face of potential disasters.

Contention

While the bill presents a proactive approach to flood management, its success will depend on effective collaboration between the emergency management and commerce sectors. Stakeholders may raise concerns regarding the adequacy of resources allocated for the development and implementation of the flood insurance assistance plan, as well as the broader economic implications for businesses. There may also be discussions regarding the specific criteria used to determine which businesses receive assistance, highlighting the need for transparency and fairness in the execution of the program.