RI S2343

Establishes a formal "small business ombudsman" position within the Department of Business Regulation, changing from a designated existing staff member to a dedicated role

Expands ombudsman duties to include assisting small businesses with regulations and enforcement activities, helping businesses petition agencies to adopt, change, or repeal rules, policies, or procedures

Requires the ombudsman to develop reporting policies with each regulating entity within 6 months of appointment and produce annual public reports with legislative recommendations to improve the small business climate

Grants Rhode Island residents and businesses the right to petition any agency or licensing authority for policy changes, with agencies required to respond within 30 days by either denying with written justification or initiating changes

Consolidates small business advocacy by having the ombudsman also serve as the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation's small business advocate, eliminating a separate staff position