The "Rhode Island Climate Superfund Act of 2025" is a legislative initiative aimed at addressing the impacts of climate change, particularly those stemming from fossil fuel combustion. The bill recognizes the urgent threats posed by climate change, such as rising sea levels and extreme weather, which disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. It mandates that large fossil fuel corporations, identified as responsible parties for their significant greenhouse gas emissions, contribute to the costs associated with climate change response efforts. To implement this, the bill introduces a new chapter in Title 42 of the General Laws, establishing definitions related to climate change and creating a climate superfund account to facilitate a cost recovery program managed by the Department of Environmental Management (DEM).

The bill outlines a comprehensive framework for recovering costs incurred by the state and municipalities for climate change response work since 2009, targeting responsible parties based on their emissions from January 1, 1990, to December 31, 2024. Key provisions include a requirement for responsible parties to pay within six months, the option for installment payments, and penalties for late payments. The act also emphasizes that it does not preempt existing rights or remedies under common law or other statutes, ensuring that local and state regulations regarding greenhouse gas emissions remain unaffected. The act will take effect upon passage, marking a significant step towards holding fossil fuel corporations accountable for their contributions to climate change.