Rhode Island 2023 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H5718

Introduced
2/17/23  
Refer
2/17/23  
Report Pass
6/12/23  
Engrossed
6/14/23  
Enrolled
6/15/23  

Caption

Relating To The Kingston Fire District In The Town Of South Kingstown

Impact

The bill also grants electors of the district the authority to establish by-laws that govern the actions of fire wardens and officers during emergencies. These by-laws may include penalties for non-compliance, helping to promote safety within the district. Additionally, the law establishes the district's assessments and collection of taxes to fund its activities such as firefighting services, maintenance of fire equipment, and emergency preparedness measures. These changes aim to enhance resource allocation towards improved fire safety and response services in the Kingston Fire District.

Summary

House Bill 5718 pertains to the Kingston Fire District in the town of South Kingstown, Rhode Island. The bill amends various sections of the existing law that governs the fire district. Notably, one change clarifies that qualification to vote in elections of the Kingston Fire District extends to those residents of the district who are entitled to vote in South Kingstown elections. This ensures a more inclusive participation from eligible residents in the decision-making processes of the district.

Contention

While there does not appear to be significant contention regarding the general principle behind H5718, some discussions may arise regarding its financial implications. The bill permits the district to levy taxes necessary for purchasing firefighting equipment and maintaining fire safety infrastructure. There may be concerns about the tax burden this imposes on local residents, especially as it pertains to costs associated with setting up and maintaining emergency services within the district. Furthermore, the repeals of certain provisions related to water supply and fire protection may also prompt questions regarding resource management by local fire services.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H8030

Require criminal background checks for applicants for employment or volunteering for the South Kingstown fire department or fire district.

RI H5030

Grants the town council of the town of South Kingstown the authority to enact a homestead exemption ordinance.

RI S0044

Grants the town council of the town of South Kingstown the authority to enact a homestead exemption ordinance.

RI H8010

Allows for the issuance of a Class B or Class B-H liquor license for the property located at 349 Main Street in the town of South Kingstown.

RI S2994

Allows for the issuance of a Class B or Class B-H liquor license for the property located at 349 Main Street in the town of South Kingstown.

RI S2270

Clarifies that buildings on leased land in the town of South Kingstown shall be taxed as real estate whether or not the leases are in writing or recorded.

RI H7748

Moves North Kingstown from the third division of the district court to the fourth division to better balance case workloads among the divisions.

RI S2936

Moves North Kingstown from the third division of the district court to the fourth division to better balance case workloads among the divisions.

RI H6084

HOUSE RESOLUTION JOYOUSLY CELEBRATING "NORTH KINGSTOWN DAY" ON MARCH 13, 2025

RI H3900

Authorizing the raising the maximum retirement age of special police officers in the town of Kingston to 70 years old

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