The enactment of S0417 would address longstanding ambiguities related to shoreline access, particularly influenced by previous legal interpretations that may have limited public access to the shore. By setting a clear line where public rights can be exercised, the bill is expected to reduce disputes between landowners and the public, making access to Rhode Island's coastal resources both clearer and more equitable. This should encourage recreational use of the beaches and promote public enjoyment of natural resources, which are vital for tourism and community life.
Summary
S0417, also known as 'An Act Relating to Waters and Navigation - Coastal Resources Management Council,' seeks to clarify the public's rights and privileges regarding shoreline access in Rhode Island. The bill defines the 'recognizable high tide line,' allowing public access on wet sand or dry sand landward of this line up to ten feet, as long as the shore is passable. This aims to resolve existing confusion and conflicts between the public and landowners by establishing clear boundaries for public access, thereby reinforcing the public's historical rights to the shore as guaranteed by the Rhode Island Constitution.
Sentiment
Overall, the sentiment surrounding S0417 appears largely positive, especially from proponents who emphasize the need for clarity and accessibility regarding Rhode Island's coastal resources. Advocates claim that this bill rights historical wrongs by reaffirming public access to what has historically been enjoyed. However, some landowners and their representatives have expressed concerns that this may infringe on private property rights and lead to potential legal liabilities, particularly regarding the unclear limitations of landowner responsibilities.
Contention
Key points of contention include the balance between public access rights and private property protections. While supporters of the bill assert that it enhances public enjoyment of coastal areas, detractors warn that it does not adequately address landowner liabilities, which could lead to increased disputes over property rights. The challenge remains to ensure that while public access is preserved and reinforced, private property owners feel secure against potential legal challenges stemming from this increased access.
Reorganizes the coastal resources management council under the department of environmental management and create the bureau of coastal resources management.
Merges the coastal resources management council with the department of environmental management and creates the bureau of coastal resources management within the department of environmental management.
Replaces the coastal resources management council with a state department of coastal resources and transfer all of the powers and duties between the two (2) authorities.
Replaces the coastal resources management council with a state department of coastal resources and transfer all of the powers and duties between the two (2) authorities.
Replaces CRMC with a newly created division of coastal resources management, a state entity within the DEM and would transfer all authority to the DEM with duties and responsibilities to be carried out by the division of coastal resources management.
JOINT RESOLUTION MAKING AN APPROPRIATION OF $400,000 TO THE COASTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT COUNCIL (CRMC) FOR FUNDING OF URI'S COASTAL RESOURCES CENTER (CRC) STORMTOOLS, CHAMP ANALYSIS, AND MYCOAST (This resolution would authorize the appropriation of the sum of $400,000 to the Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Council for the continuation of STORMTOOLS, CHAMP, and MyCoast.)
JOINT RESOLUTION MAKING AN APPROPRIATION OF $400,000 TO THE COASTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT COUNCIL (CRMC) FOR FUNDING OF URI'S COASTAL RESOURCES CENTER (CRC) STORMTOOLS, CHAMP ANALYSIS, AND MYCOAST (This resolution would authorize the appropriation of the sum of $400,000 to the Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Council for the continuation of STORMTOOLS, CHAMP, and MyCoast.)
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.