The bill proposes the addition of a new chapter, Chapter 23.4, titled "ACT ON COASTS -- COASTAL RESILIENCY," to Title 46 of the General Laws, which is focused on waters and navigation. This chapter would establish the "Act on Coasts -- Coastal Resiliency" and outlines the responsibilities of the Rhode Island Chief Resilience Officer (CRO). The CRO is tasked with conducting a comprehensive assessment of climate risks related to sea level rise, developing a coastal resilience plan, coordinating resilience efforts across various entities, and providing biennial reports on the state of resilience in Rhode Island. The first report is due by December 31, 2025, and the statewide coastal resilience plan is to be included in the state climate plan by the same date.

The bill also details the contents of the statewide coastal resilience plan, which must include strategies for climate change resilience and adaptation in coastal areas, assessments of community vulnerabilities, and recommendations for actions to prepare for climate impacts. The plan should contain information necessary for applying for federal funding, an assessment of infrastructure vulnerabilities, a record of investments made for resilience, and methodologies for decision-making regarding further investments. Additionally, the plan must be updated as necessary and reviewed at least every two years, starting October 1, 2027. The act would take effect upon passage and also establishes a twenty-member advisory board on coastal resilience. There are no deletions from current law indicated in the bill.