The bill amends Chapter 42-17.1 of the General Laws by adding a new section, 42-17.1-47, which outlines the responsibilities of the Department of Environmental Management (the department) regarding the maintenance and repair of state-owned or operated boat ramps and docks. The bill defines boat ramps and docks as sloping floors, walks, or roadways into a body of water for the purpose of launching, hauling, or operating boats, and includes docks, piers, and related in-water structures. It establishes that the department is responsible for maintaining and repairing these facilities to ensure public boating access and infrastructure.

Additionally, the bill creates a public boat ramps and docks restricted receipt account, which will be funded by fees collected from the use of state-owned or operated boat ramps and docks. The department is tasked with establishing by rule the percentage of these fees that will be allocated to the restricted receipt account. Furthermore, the department is required to promulgate rules and regulations to delineate the division of ownership, maintenance, and repair responsibilities for boat ramps and docks between municipalities and the department. The act will take effect upon passage.