Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7987

Introduced
2/27/26  

Caption

Creates an emergency action plan related to the operation of warming and cooling centers during periods of extreme weather and establishes a statewide notification system with the National Weather Service initiating warming/cooling center alerts.

Impact

The successful implementation of H7987 will likely enhance public safety protocols and improve community readiness by ensuring that all cities and towns are prepared to respond effectively to extreme weather events. Municipal plans will need to identify communication strategies to inform the public about available resources and operational protocols, fostering collaboration with non-profit organizations and other community entities. This collaborative approach aims to facilitate resource distribution and ensure that individuals aware of heating or cooling options can access them promptly.

Summary

House Bill H7987 aims to establish a systematic approach for municipalities in Rhode Island to create emergency action plans related to the operation of warming and cooling centers during extreme weather conditions. By requiring each city and town to prepare a local plan by November 15, 2026, the bill emphasizes the importance of coordinated responses to protect vulnerable populations during severe temperature fluctuations. The Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency (RIEMA) will provide uniform guidelines to ensure consistency across the various municipalities.

Contention

While the bill is driven by a noble goal of enhancing emergency preparedness, it may face challenges in uniform implementation due to varying capacities and resources among municipalities. Some local governments may express concerns about the feasibility of establishing and maintaining warming and cooling centers, particularly in underserved areas. Additionally, the requirement for plans to receive approval from RIEMA may create bureaucratic hurdles that could hinder timely action in emergencies.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0713

Provides for warming center and cooling center alerts to trigger certain procedures municipalities shall follow during extreme heat or cold to help at-risk individuals with resources including, but not limited to, warming and cooling centers.

RI H5953

Provides for warming center and cooling center alerts to trigger certain procedures municipalities shall follow during extreme heat or cold to help at-risk individuals with resources including, but not limited to, warming and cooling centers.

RI H6188

Establishes a system to publicly disseminate emergency alerts regarding a missing adult with an intellectual disability.

RI H6097

Creates qualified data centers and tax exemptions.

RI S0921

Creates qualified data centers and tax exemptions.

RI H6165

Creates the PURPLE alert state system to aid in the search for a missing adult with a serious physical, behavioral health, neurological disabilities or medical condition.

RI S0983

Creates the PURPLE alert state system to aid in the search for a missing adult with a serious physical, behavioral health, neurological disabilities or medical condition.

RI H6046

Requires reimbursement for medical, dental, and behavioral health services provided at community health care centers to equal the lesser of the actual cost, based on Medicaid reports, or 125% of the median rate for all community health centers within RI.

RI S0896

Requires reimbursement for medical, dental, and behavioral health services provided at community health care centers to equal the lesser of the actual cost, based on Medicaid reports, or 125% of the median rate for all community health centers within RI.

RI S0462

Removes the sunset provision of the four (4) year pilot program to prevent drug overdoses through the establishment of harm reduction centers and creates a permanent program for harm reduction centers.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.