The bill proposes a comprehensive restructuring of the coastal resources management system in Rhode Island by changing the "Coastal Resources Management Council" to the "DEPARTMENT OF COASTAL RESOURCES." This change involves transferring all powers and duties from the council to the new department, including the authority to manage coastal resources, review land use requests, and develop leasing systems for submerged and filled lands. The bill also sets a maximum fee for transatlantic cables making landfall in the state and introduces new definitions for terms used within the chapter. It eliminates the previous appointment system for council members and establishes a new director position appointed by the governor, as well as a citizens advisory committee to provide policy input.

The bill also removes the coastal resources management council's authority to form committees and the positions of chairperson, vice chairperson, and secretary, transferring these responsibilities to the director of the new department. It creates the position of staff attorney(s) for the director and mandates the transfer of all council employees to the department. The bill confirms that all prior actions taken by the council remain valid and enforceable by the department. It also outlines the department's exclusive jurisdiction over development and operations below mean high water, the coordination of harbor safety, and the enforcement of riparian rights. The bill changes the process for administrative hearings, with the director now having the authority to impose administrative penalties and the creation of a new fund for dredging and disposal options.