The bill amends Chapter 42-17.1 of the General Laws to establish a Bureau of Coastal Resources Management within the Department of Environmental Management. It introduces key definitions, including "Bureau," "Community advisory board," and "Environmental justice focus area," which identifies areas needing special attention due to socioeconomic factors. The bill creates a deputy director position within the Bureau to manage coastal resources programs and establishes a community advisory board to advise the director and the Bureau on policy initiatives and program improvements.

The bill transfers all powers, duties, and functions from the Coastal Resources Management Council to the new Bureau, ensuring that former council employees retain their civil service status, title, rate of pay, and benefits. It mandates the hiring of at least one full-time staff attorney for the Bureau.

Additionally, the bill re-designates references to the Coastal Resources Management Council as the "department," emphasizing its role as the lead agency for managing coastal resources and dredging in tidal waters. It outlines the department's responsibilities, including developing and coordinating a marine resources development plan, adopting special area management plans, and establishing a fee structure for the disposal of dredge materials.

The bill clarifies the department's exclusive jurisdiction over development below mean high water and emphasizes collaboration with municipalities to ensure public access to tidal waters. It also introduces provisions for issuing permits, managing leases, and enforcing compliance with coastal resource regulations, aiming to enhance the management and protection of Rhode Island's coastal resources. The act takes effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
3082: 42-17.1-4