The bill amends Chapter 42-105 of the General Laws, which concerns the Newport and Bristol County Convention and Visitors’ Bureau, now known as Discover Newport. It establishes Discover Newport as a public corporation separate from the state, with the purpose of promoting tourism and coordinating tourism activities in Newport and Bristol Counties. The bill changes the bureau's name to "Newport and Bristol County convention and visitors' bureau dba Discover Newport" and specifies that its existence will continue until legally terminated or it ceases to conduct business, at which point its rights and properties will revert to the state.

The bill redefines the bureau's board of directors to consist of 18 Rhode Island residents, preferably from Newport and Bristol Counties, and details the appointment process and term limits for board members. State legislators are not eligible to serve on the board. The bureau is required to meet six times a year and hold special meetings in accordance with the open meetings law. The bill also mandates annual audits of Discover Newport's financial books related to room tax revenues, with a comprehensive report to be submitted to the board and government officials. It repeals the requirement for an annual report to be submitted and posted electronically and includes provisions for new board member training. The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5665: 42-105-11