The bill amends various sections of the General Laws in Chapter 46-4, "Harbors and Harbor Lines," to enhance the regulatory powers of town councils in Bristol, South Kingstown, North Kingstown, Tiverton, Newport, Little Compton, Narragansett, Jamestown, New Shoreham, Charlestown, Middletown, Portsmouth, East Greenwich, Cranston, Warren, and Westerly. Each town council is granted the authority to enact ordinances for the enforcement and supervision of public waters and harbors, including regulations on vessel speed, management, and the use of moorings and anchorages. The councils can appoint harbormasters or harbor coordinators, collect fees, and impose penalties for violations, with fines varying from $100 to $300 depending on the town.

Significant changes include the insertion of a new definition of "houseboat," which replaces the previous language that described them as "not self-propelled," aligning with the legal definition in § 42-17.1-46. The bill also clarifies that the powers granted to the town councils do not override the authority of the coastal resources management council as outlined in chapter 23 of the title. Additionally, it introduces provisions for the management of mooring specifications and the regulation of water-related events, ensuring a comprehensive approach to local governance over public waters while maintaining compliance with state regulations.

Statutes affected:
5089: 46-22-9.1