The bill amends several sections of the General Laws in Chapter 46-23 entitled "Coastal Resources Management Council." It introduces changes to the administrative hearings process, the appointment and compensation of hearing officers, and the procedures for hearings and orders. The bill removes the option for subcommittees to hear contested cases, enforcement proceedings, and administrative fines, mandating that these be heard by administrative hearing officers instead. The term "commissioner" is replaced with "executive director" of coastal resources management, who is given the discretion to resolve contested licensing and enforcement proceedings informally.

The bill specifies that the governor, with the senate's advice and consent, shall appoint at least one and up to two hearing officers who are attorneys-at-law with a minimum of five years of practice. The initial appointment terms are set at three and five years, respectively. The bill eliminates the provision for compensation determination by the unclassified pay board and the use of subcommittees when hearing officers are unavailable. Instead, it empowers the executive director to hire a hearing officer if the position remains vacant for more than 90 days. The executive director is also authorized to hire a state-employed hearing officer to adjudicate pending contested cases if the appointed hearing officer is unable to do so in a timely manner. Additionally, the bill updates the role of the clerk and the process for hearings and orders, emphasizing that hearings must be held before a hearing officer and detailing the procedure for the council's review of findings. The act will take effect upon passage.