AN ACT RELATING TO STATE AFFAIRS AND GOVERNMENT -- EXECUTIVE CLIMATE CHANGE COORDINATING COUNCIL -- MANDATORY ACT ON CLIMATE COMPLIANCE IN STATE BUDGETING AND PLANNING

HB 7917 requires all Rhode Island state agencies and state-funded organizations (like public authorities) to integrate the state’s December 2025 climate strategy report into their annual budgets, capital plans, and strategic documents starting in fiscal year 2027. It mandates that each budget or project submission include a specific emissions impact assessment (showing if it reduces, maintains, or increases emissions) and a certification signed by the agency head confirming compliance. Non-compliant submissions will be rejected by the Office of Management and Budget, and agencies must publicly post their assessments and certifications. This law directly affects how state funds are allocated, ensuring all major spending aligns with Rhode Island’s legally binding climate targets.