The bill amends Rhode Island's General Laws regarding the Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC) to emphasize the importance of the state's coastal resources and the need for their comprehensive planning and management. It inserts language affirming the public's constitutional rights to enjoy the shore and the state's duty to conserve natural resources. The CRMC is designated as the lead state agency for dredging in tidal waters, with responsibilities including coordinating state interests in dredging, formulating policy, negotiating agreements, and developing a comprehensive dredge material management plan. The bill also addresses the absence of a general maintenance dredging policy, advocating for its establishment to manage environmental and economic impacts.

The bill expands the scope of projects requiring legislative approval to include all projects involving the lease of tidal lands of twenty-five acres or more. The CRMC is given the authority to review lease requests, recommend fees, and has exclusive authority to lease submerged and filled lands, except for large-scale projects which require general assembly approval. The CRMC can also impose a fee for transatlantic communication cables making landfall in Rhode Island. Definitions for "Filled land," "Tidal Lands," and "Mean high water" are provided, and the bill outlines the CRMC's powers and duties, including the adoption of regulations, jurisdiction over coastal wetlands, and the ability to issue permits and enforce riparian rights. The bill also specifies the leasing process for filled lands to adjacent property owners, with terms up to fifty years and possible renewal, and requires general assembly approval for large-scale leases or uses of tidal lands. The act would take effect upon passage.