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RI H7991
Bill
Status
2/27/2026
Primary Sponsor
Terri-Denise Cortvriend
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AI Summary
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Establishes state policy prioritizing nature-based solutions (living shorelines, wetland restoration, floodplain reconnection, green infrastructure) over hard-engineered approaches for coastal resilience and erosion control projects
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Requires the Department of Environmental Management (DEM) and Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC) to update rules and permitting criteria by January 1, 2027 to prioritize nature-based solutions and create expedited review procedures
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Creates mandatory permitting timelines: 30 calendar days for initial completeness determination and 90 calendar days for final permit decision on qualifying projects
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Designates DEM as the central coordinating entity for expedited permitting, responsible for accepting applications, coordinating multi-agency review, and facilitating pre-application consultations
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Requires annual reporting to the governor and legislature by March 1 (starting 2027) on applications received, permits issued, project outcomes, and recommendations for improvements
Legislative Description
Provides that DEM regulations and CRMC in consultation with the chief resilience officer shall update to prioritize nature based solutions for coastal resilience projects that would be coordinated by DEM using an expedited permitting process.
Waters And Navigation
Last Action
Committee transferred to House Environment and Natural Resources
3/4/2026