RI
Rhode Island House Bill H8301
Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session
Menu
RI

Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H8301

Introduced
3/13/26  

Caption

Provides that the department of environmental management would maintain and repair state owned or operated boat ramps and docks.

Impact

The bill introduces a restricted receipt account funded by fees collected from the use of boat ramps and docks. This fiscal arrangement aims to provide the necessary resources for the ongoing maintenance and repair of these facilities. The establishment of such an account demonstrates a legislative attempt to create a sustainable funding model that links user fees directly to the upkeep of the facilities being accessed. It may represent a shift towards more self-sustaining financial practices within state management of public resources.

Summary

House Bill H8301 focuses on the maintenance and repair of state-owned or operated boat ramps and docks by the Department of Environmental Management. The legislation establishes the responsibility of the department to ensure that public boating access is maintained and that the necessary infrastructure is in place for the operation of boats. This initiative seeks to enhance public access to waterways and ensure that facilities are adequately maintained for recreational use.

Contention

One notable aspect of H8301 is the directive to the Department of Environmental Management to set forth rules and regulations. This could lead to contention over how responsibilities for maintenance are divided between state and local governments, particularly concerning municipal regulations and resources. Discussions may arise around whether municipalities have adequate resources to comply with or support the establishment and maintenance of these public facilities, given that the bill could lead to conflicting priorities at different government levels.

Overall_conclusion

Overall, House Bill H8301 presents a proactive approach to enhancing waterfront access through the maintenance of essential infrastructure. However, it may also necessitate careful consideration of the implications for local governance, funding, and the potential pressures it might place on both state and municipal resources.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5994

Requires the department of environmental management to develop, identify, maintain and update a list of projects that qualify for forest and open space land conservation funding pursuant to federal laws.

RI H5704

Creates rodent integrated pest management pilot programs for municipalities. That choose to participate. Reports would be approved by the municipality's mayor or administrator and would be submitted to the department of environmental management.

RI S0651

Creates rodent integrated pest management pilot programs for municipalities. That choose to participate. Reports would be approved by the municipality's mayor or administrator and would be submitted to the department of environmental management.

RI H5342

Establishes an agricultural restricted receipt account within the department of environmental management. An advisory committee would be established to determine suggested uses of the funds in said account.

RI S0436

Establishes an agricultural restricted receipt account within the department of environmental management. An advisory committee would be established to determine suggested uses of the funds in said account.

RI H5705

Provides that the legislature would be the body that negotiates on behalf of the state for all activities occurring in, on and over state submerged land extending beyond twenty-five (25) acres.

RI H5453

Replaces CRMC with a newly created division of coastal resources management, a state entity within the DEM and would transfer all authority to the DEM with duties and responsibilities to be carried out by the division of coastal resources management.

RI S0643

Creates a shellfish hatchery program established by the department of environmental management to foster sustainable development and resiliency of the state's shellfish industry.

RI S0812

Allows the department of environmental management to acquire established foot paths by eminent domain in order to provide public access to streams, rivers, lakes and ponds.

RI H6134

Allows the department of environmental management to acquire established foot paths by eminent domain in order to provide public access to streams, rivers, lakes and ponds.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.