The bill amends existing laws related to small business regulatory fairness in administrative procedures by establishing the position of a small business ombudsman within the Department of Business Regulation. This ombudsman will be responsible for assisting small businesses with regulatory or licensing issues, gathering suggestions and feedback, and producing an annual public report detailing their activities and providing legislative recommendations to improve the small business climate. The ombudsman will also coordinate with regulatory agencies to ensure small businesses receive assistance regarding regulations or enforcement activities.

Additionally, the bill modifies the petition process for residents or businesses in Rhode Island to request changes to agency rules, policies, or procedures. It requires agencies to respond to petitions in writing within a specified timeframe, either by denying the petition with justification or initiating rulemaking, policy, or procedure changes. The small business ombudsman will also serve as the small business advocate for the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation, tasked with conveying small business concerns and informing them about proposed regulations that may impact them economically. This act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
388: 42-35.1-5, 42-35-6, 42-64-34