The State of Rhode Island is facing significant challenges due to climate change, including increased storm frequency, flooding, sea level rise, and erosion, which pose economic threats such as loss of property taxes, increased stormwater management costs, and potential infrastructure damage. To address these issues, a resolution proposes the creation of a special legislative commission consisting of seventeen members from various sectors, including the House of Representatives, environmental agencies, planning and coastal management, academic institutions, and industry associations. The commission's purpose is to conduct a comprehensive study on the impacts of climate change on Rhode Island and to explore potential solutions to mitigate these impacts.

The commission will examine a range of issues such as sea level rise, riverine flooding, beach erosion, revenue loss, infrastructure vulnerabilities, and potential funding mechanisms for resilience programs. It will also consider various adaptation and mitigation strategies, including beach nourishment, shoreline hardening, managed retreat policies, and green infrastructure solutions. The commission is tasked with conducting public hearings, soliciting stakeholder input, analyzing the implications of different strategies, and organizing administratively to meet the challenges of climate change. The commission will report its findings, conclusions, and recommendations for legislative action to the Speaker of the House by May 14, 2025, and will dissolve on June 18, 2025. The report will be made publicly available on the official website of the Rhode Island House of Representatives.