Proposes a bond measure authorizing the State of Rhode Island to issue up to $100,000,000 in general obligation bonds, subject to voter approval, to fund coastal preparedness and resilience projects.

The Blue Wave Bond for Coastal Preparedness – Plain English Summary

This bill proposes putting a question on the ballot for Rhode Island voters to decide whether the state should borrow up to $100 million to pay for projects that protect the coast from flooding, storms, and other climate-related risks. If the legislature approves placing it on the ballot and voters say yes, the state would issue "general obligation bonds," which is essentially a loan that the state repays over time using tax revenue. The money would go toward coastal preparedness and resilience projects, meaning efforts to strengthen shorelines, protect communities near the water, and reduce damage from future storms or rising sea levels.

This measure would most directly affect Rhode Islanders who live, work, or own property along the coast, as well as communities that depend on coastal infrastructure like roads, utilities, and public beaches. However, because the bonds would be repaid using state funds, all Rhode Island taxpayers would share in the cost of repayment over the life of the bonds. The specific projects to be funded have not yet been detailed in the bill itself.

Currently, the bill has been introduced and sent to the Senate Finance Committee, where lawmakers will review its financial details before deciding whether to advance it. If approved by the legislature, Rhode Island voters would have the final say on whether to authorize the borrowing, likely through a referendum in 2026.