The bill amends Section 42-64-14.1 of the General Laws concerning the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation, specifically regarding the approval process for oil refinery and nuclear plant projects. The new legal language inserted into the law establishes that the General Assembly has exclusive jurisdiction to approve or deny plans for oil refinery projects. Notably, the bill deletes references to nuclear plant projects, thereby removing the requirement for such projects to seek approval from the General Assembly.
As a result of this amendment, the final approval or denial of project plans for oil refineries will remain solely within the jurisdiction of the General Assembly, overriding any existing laws or ordinances that might grant regulatory powers to local governments. This act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.
Statutes affected: 5033: 42-64-14.1