Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7147

Introduced
1/16/26  

Caption

Amends the definition of public works so that it would include any public works projects performed for any city or town or quasi-municipal entity and the state and any quasi-state entity.

Impact

The implications of HB 7147 on state laws are significant, as it would broaden the scope of public works projects. This could lead to greater accountability for contractors involved in these projects and ensure that labor laws governing payment and work conditions apply more uniformly across various projects within the state. Additionally, by including quasi-municipal entities, the law aims to encompass a diverse range of projects, potentially increasing the number of contracts regulated under these labor provisions.

Summary

House Bill 7147 aims to amend the existing definition of 'public works' within Rhode Island's labor laws to expand the types of projects considered public works. This bill specifies that any public works projects undertaken by cities, towns, quasi-municipal entities, or the state, including all forms of grading, clearing, demolition, and construction, would fall under this definition. As enacted, it seeks to provide a more comprehensive understanding of what constitutes public works within the state's legal framework.

Contention

While the bill appears beneficial by providing clarity and consistency in public works regulation, it may face scrutiny regarding the extent of its application. Concerns could arise over the administrative burden placed on smaller municipalities or quasi-municipal entities, which may require additional resources to comply with the expanded definitions. Stakeholders might engage in discussions about the practical effects of the bill on local governance and contractor compliance, which could influence the bill's acceptance within the legislature and among the public.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5028

Amends the definition of public works so that it would include any public works projects performed for any city or town or quasi-municipal entity and the state and any quasi-state entity.

RI H5371

Allows the towns of Burrillville and Glocester to publish notices in any newspaper located within their municipalities and would also allow publication in other designated digital or print platforms selected by their city or town councils.

RI S0668

Requires that any state agency, state institution of higher education, and quasi-public agency that engages in printing more than 50 copies of a contract, publication, brochure, notice, or promotional material to use a state-owned or operated print shop.

RI S0725

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION -- OF THE LEGISLATIVE POWER (Proposes a state constitutional amendment that no department or other entity created by the state would have poser to incur debt in excess of $ 50,000, without express approval from the legislature and voters.)

RI S0850

Prohibits any city, town, quasi-municipal corporation or public corporation from assessing any existing agricultural operation or agricultural land for the extension of any water utilities past the property and from imposing any connection fee.

RI H5707

Amends the definition of public record to exempt from public disclosure the city or town of residence of the justices, judges, and magistrates of the unified judicial system.

RI S0573

Amends the definition of public record to exempt from public disclosure the city or town of residence of the justices, judges, and magistrates of the unified judicial system.

RI S0672

Provides that architects and other authorized disaster response workers be considered, in the course of performing their duties, state workers and be entitled to all rights in like manner as state employees.

RI H5962

Requires a municipality or quasi-public agency to file a report with the department of municipal finance if it has not made its payment to its other post-employment benefits trust fund or if it is less than thirty-five percent (35%) funded.

RI H5968

Prohibits any city, town, quasi-municipal corporation or public corporation from assessing any existing agricultural operation or agricultural land any water impact fee, excepting base useable charges.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.