The bill amends Chapter 46-23 of the General Laws concerning the Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC) in Rhode Island. It establishes that the legislature will negotiate on behalf of the state for all activities occurring in, on, and over state submerged land extending beyond twenty-five (25) acres. The CRMC is tasked with making recommendations to the General Assembly regarding any projects involving the lease of tidal lands of twenty-five (25) acres or more, including the imposition of appropriate fees for such use and/or lease.

The bill specifies that large-scale filling projects or leases of tidal lands of twenty-five (25) acres or more require legislative approval, with the CRMC responsible for reviewing these requests. It also outlines that any lease of tidal lands or license to use those lands is subject to approval, disapproval, or conditional approval by the General Assembly through legislative action.

Additionally, the CRMC is granted the authority to impose a maximum fee of eighty thousand dollars ($80,000) per annum for any transatlantic telephone or fiber-optic communication cable that makes landfall in the state. The bill includes provisions for the cancellation of leases for violations of terms or non-payment of fees, stating that any fees paid shall not be returned.

Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the management and protection of coastal resources in Rhode Island, ensuring that significant projects are subject to legislative oversight and that appropriate fees are established for the use of tidal lands.