The bill amends Section 42-17.1-2 of the General Laws to enhance the powers and duties of the director of the Department of Environmental Management. It establishes an agricultural restricted receipt account within the department for collecting agricultural fees, which will be used solely for authorized purposes as determined by the advisory committee established by the division of agriculture. The bill mandates the formation of this advisory committee to assist in determining suggested uses of the funds in the account.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for consolidating various functions related to the management of the state's natural resources, including water, air, and wildlife. It introduces new provisions for establishing minimum standards for environmental conditions, sewage disposal systems, and waste management. The director is granted authority to enforce compliance orders, conduct inspections, and issue immediate-compliance orders in urgent situations. The bill outlines procedures for notifying individuals of violations and conducting hearings related to compliance orders.

Furthermore, the bill allows for the designation of management areas for marine species and grants the director the authority to adopt regulations regarding the management of these areas. It specifies the establishment of fee schedules for application processing, the creation of a water and air protection program account, and the requirement for land trusts to maintain records and report on their activities, all aimed at enhancing environmental stewardship and improving the management of natural resources in the state. This act would take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2820: 42-17.1-2