The bill proposes amendments to Chapter 42-105 of the General Laws, which concerns the Newport and Bristol County Convention and Visitors’ Bureau, to be renamed "Discover Newport" or another name chosen by the board of directors. It includes new language that clarifies the bureau's powers, its status as a public corporation, and its governmental function. Additionally, it specifies that upon termination, the corporation's rights and properties shall pass to the state and not to any private person or entity. The bill also revises the composition of the board of directors, which will consist of 18 members until June 30, 2024, and then increase to 19 members. Board members must be Rhode Island residents, preferably from Newport and/or Bristol Counties, and connected to the hospitality industry. The bill outlines the appointment process, the staggered terms of the board members, and the election of the chairperson. It also states that state legislators are ineligible to serve on the board and that members serve without compensation but are reimbursed for reasonable expenses.
Furthermore, the bill requires Discover Newport to hold at least six board meetings annually and allows for special meetings in accordance with open meetings law. The board will be governed by their by-laws, and the bill redefines Discover Newport's purpose to focus on promoting tourism for the benefit of all municipalities within Newport and Bristol Counties. It also outlines the general powers of the corporation. The bill mandates the transfer of all assets from the Newport and Bristol tourism and convention authority to Discover Newport and requires an annual audit of financial books related to room tax revenues by an independent certified public accountant. The audit report, which also serves as the annual report, must be submitted to various government officials and city or town councils in Newport and Bristol Counties. The bill includes provisions for new board member training and the dissemination of training materials related to state laws. The bill would take effect upon passage.