Requires the coastal resources management council to conduct a review of certain water classifications and existing policies and regulations to properly account for sea level rise.

Plain-English Summary

This bill would require Rhode Island's Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC) — the state agency responsible for managing the coastline and coastal waters — to take a closer look at how it classifies and regulates coastal areas in light of rising sea levels. Specifically, the agency would need to review its existing water classifications, policies, and rules to make sure they are keeping up with the reality that ocean and bay water levels are gradually increasing over time.

The idea behind the bill is that rules and classifications written years ago may no longer accurately reflect current or future coastal conditions. As sea levels rise, areas that were once considered safe or stable may become more vulnerable to flooding, erosion, or other changes. By requiring a formal review, the bill aims to ensure that the CRMC's regulatory framework stays current and can better protect coastal communities, ecosystems, and infrastructure.

This bill would most directly affect Rhode Island residents and property owners who live or work near the coast, as well as businesses, developers, and municipalities in coastal areas. Any policy updates that result from the review could influence decisions about coastal development, land use, and environmental protection going forward.

Currently, the bill has been referred to the House State Government & Elections Committee and has been recommended for further study, meaning it has not yet advanced to a full vote. It is scheduled for a hearing in March 2026.