The bill amends Section 45-2-35.1 of the General Laws in Chapter 45-2, titled "General Powers," specifically concerning the City of Newport's authority to charge landing and boarding fees to cruise vessels. The amendment includes an increase in the fees charged to cruise vessels landing in Newport from three dollars ($3.00) to ten dollars ($10.00) per passenger. Additionally, the bill authorizes the city to impose penalties on any delinquency in the payment of these fees at a rate equal to that assessed by the city on tax delinquencies.

The bill also includes the deletion of the specific reference to vessels landing "at a dock" in Newport, broadening the scope to include any cruise vessel landing in Newport. The term "cruise vessel" is clarified to exclude ferries and water carriers operating as common carriers within the state. The City Council of Newport is tasked with promulgating rules and regulations to implement these provisions. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
3021  SUB A: 45-2-35.1
3021: 45-2-35.1