Increases the maximum penalty for certain violations related to the cutting, removal, damage by injurious liquids or gases to trees, plants and shrubs on any public highway or public land under the jurisdiction of state agencies from $500 to $1,000.

Plain-English Summary

This bill would double the maximum fine that someone can face for damaging, cutting down, or removing trees, plants, or shrubs on public roads or public land managed by state agencies in Rhode Island. Currently, the maximum penalty for these violations is $500. If this bill becomes law, that maximum would increase to $1,000.

The bill specifically covers harmful actions like cutting or removing vegetation, as well as damaging plants using injurious liquids or gases — for example, spraying harmful chemicals on trees or plants located along public highways or on state-managed public property. The goal appears to be strengthening the deterrent against unauthorized damage to public greenery and natural resources.

This bill would primarily affect individuals, contractors, or businesses that work near or interact with vegetation on public roads and state-managed lands. Anyone found to be illegally harming these plants could face a higher financial penalty than is currently allowed. Law enforcement and state agencies responsible for overseeing public lands would also be affected, as they would have increased enforcement tools available to them.

As of now, the bill has been introduced and referred to the House Environment and Natural Resources Committee, which has scheduled it for a hearing. The committee has recommended holding it for further study, meaning it has not yet advanced through the legislative process.