The bill amends Chapter 46-23 of the General Laws concerning the Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC) by introducing new sections that establish requirements for parking modifications near designated CRMC rights-of-way. It mandates that any city, town, municipal agency, private entity, or other organization seeking to reduce or restrict parking in these areas must submit a comprehensive parking plan. This plan must detail the specific parking areas affected, the reasons for the proposed changes, and an analysis of the potential impacts on public shoreline access, with a specific focus on compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Additionally, a public comment period of no less than 30 days is required to gather feedback from local residents, stakeholders, and advocacy groups.

The bill also outlines enforcement measures for non-compliance, including cease-and-desist orders issued by CRMC or the Department of Environmental Management (DEM), fines not exceeding $500 per day for each day of non-compliance, and additional penalties or corrective measures as deemed necessary by CRMC or DEM to restore equitable access. It allows CRMC to collaborate with DEM to ensure that proposed parking modifications do not conflict with existing programs or accessibility standards and to achieve alignment with the goals of preserving and enhancing public shoreline access. Furthermore, agencies or departments acting under the authority and expressed permission of the State of Rhode Island or any city or town are exempt from these provisions, provided that any restrictions or reductions in parking near CRMC rights-of-way are temporary and implemented solely to address legitimate public safety concerns or to alleviate impediments to traffic flow. If such restrictions or reductions are to last more than 20 calendar days, notice must be provided to the CRMC, which shall then make such notice available to the public. The act is set to take effect upon passage.