This bill amends Chapter 34-8 of the General Laws, changing the title from "Rhode Island Coordinate System" to "Rhode Island State Plane Coordinate System." It updates the definitions and adoption of the most recent plane coordinate systems established by the National Geodetic Survey, which is part of NOAA and the US Department of Commerce. The bill specifies that Rhode Island shall adopt the most recent system of plane coordinates known as the Rhode Island State Plane Coordinate System, replacing previous versions from 1927 and 1983.

The bill introduces new definitions for terms related to the coordinate systems, including "National Geodetic Survey," "NOAA," and "National Spatial Reference System." It clarifies the use of coordinates in public records, ensuring that coordinates based on any Rhode Island coordinate system conform to current standards and guidelines published by the National Geodetic Survey. It also establishes that such coordinates must be accompanied by a specific statement regarding their basis and a description of the survey method used.

Additionally, the bill modifies the meter-to-foot conversion to utilize the international foot for consistency, stating that one international foot equals .3048 meter exactly. It establishes that the Rhode Island State Plane Coordinate System shall be used for projects commenced after the official release of the State Plane Coordinate System 2022 by the National Geodetic Survey.

The act will take effect upon passage.