Environment and Natural Resources

HB 7183 requires owners of large Rhode Island buildings (25,000+ gross square feet) to annually track and report energy use, water consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions using the ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager tool. Buildings over 50,000 sq ft must report starting May 15, 2028, while those between 25,000-49,999 sq ft begin reporting May 15, 2030. The Office of Energy Resources will collect this data, publish it publicly to increase market transparency, and host annual information sessions for building owners. Exemptions are available for unoccupied properties, ongoing demolition, or lack of energy service during the reporting year.

Allows any member of a federally recognized Indian tribe located in Rhode Island to receive recreational freshwater and saltwater fishing licenses free of charge.

Allows any member of a federally recognized Indian tribe located in Rhode Island to receive recreational freshwater and saltwater fishing licenses free of charge.

HB 7071 would prohibit importing, transporting, selling, distributing, or possessing non-native invasive plant species in Rhode Island. It directly affects businesses and individuals handling these plants, including nurseries, landscapers, and residents. Violations could result in fines up to $500, with the state director defining which plants are prohibited. The law would take effect on January 1, 2027, pending final rulemaking.

HB 7734 is an amendment to the existing Consumer PFAS Ban Act of 2024, clarifying how enforcement of the ban will be carried out. It does not expand the ban to new products or change the list of covered items (like carpets, cookware, cosmetics, or menstrual products). The bill specifically refines definitions related to "intentionally added PFAS" and enforcement procedures to ensure consistent application by the Department of Environmental Management. This amendment directly affects manufacturers and importers of the covered products listed in the original law.