The bill amends Section 45-2-35 of the General Laws in Chapter 45-2, which pertains to the general powers of towns. It increases the landing fee for the town of New Shoreham from fifty cents ($.50) to one dollar ($1.00) for each passenger over the age of twelve (12) arriving on Block Island by public or private boat. The revenue generated from this fee, after deducting collection expenses, is designated for promoting the health, safety, and welfare of passengers, including funding emergency medical services, tourism-related property acquisition, and the construction and maintenance of tourism support facilities.

Additionally, the bill allows the town to enter into agreements with common carriers and marina operators to collect the landing fee on its behalf, which may include provisions for payment to these entities and indemnification against liability claims. The landing fee can be included in the rates charged to passengers without needing approval from the public utilities commission. The town council is tasked with creating rules and regulations to implement this section. The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
980: 45-2-35
980  SUB A: 45-2-35