Rhode Island’s climate change legal framework, particularly as it pertains to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction and adaptation strategies, is significantly influenced by state-specific legislation and its alignment with federal initiatives. The Rhode Island General Laws (RIGL) Chapter 42-6.6, the “Rhode Island Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Act of 2014,” establishes legally binding targets for GHG reductions. This act mandates a 45% reduction in GHG emissions below 1990 levels by 2030 and an 80% reduction by 2050. To achieve these targets, the law requires the development and implementation of a comprehensive climate change strategy, which includes sectors like energy, transportation, and buildings. The Rhode Island Executive Climate Change Plan, updated periodically, outlines the specific policies and programs designed to meet these mandated reductions. Key among these are initiatives promoting renewable energy adoption, energy efficiency improvements, and the electrification of transportation. Furthermore, the state’s Coastal Resources Management Program (CRMP) incorporates climate change considerations, particularly sea-level rise and increased storm intensity, into coastal zone management and land use planning. The interplay between these legislative mandates, executive plans, and regulatory programs creates a complex legal landscape for addressing climate change in Rhode Island, emphasizing a multi-sectoral approach and a commitment to achieving ambitious emissions reduction goals.

Rhode Island’s Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Act of 2014 (RIGGERA), as amended, mandates significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The state’s climate change strategy is guided by this foundational legislation and subsequent regulatory frameworks. A key aspect of achieving these targets involves the integration of renewable energy sources and the phasing out of fossil fuels, particularly in the electricity sector. The Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission (PUC) plays a crucial role in implementing these policies through its oversight of utility operations and rate-setting. When considering the development of new energy infrastructure, such as a proposed offshore wind farm, the PUC must assess the project’s alignment with the state’s renewable energy mandates and emissions reduction goals. This assessment often involves evaluating the project’s impact on the overall energy mix, its contribution to meeting renewable portfolio standards, and its potential to displace emissions from conventional power sources. The regulatory process for approving such projects typically includes public comment periods and detailed technical reviews to ensure compliance with RIGGERA and other environmental regulations. The question probes the specific authority of the PUC in this context, focusing on its mandate to ensure that utility investments and operational plans contribute to achieving the legally defined emissions reduction targets. The PUC’s authority is not to unilaterally set emissions caps but rather to approve or disallow utility plans and investments that are consistent with the state’s statutory emission reduction trajectory. Therefore, the PUC’s role is to ensure that utility actions support, rather than undermine, the state’s climate goals as established by law.

The Rhode Island General Laws, specifically Chapter 42-13.5, establishes the Rhode Island Climate Change Coordinating Council. This council is tasked with developing and overseeing the implementation of the state’s climate change strategy. The specific provisions within this chapter delineate the council’s composition, responsibilities, and the process for creating and updating the state’s Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Plan. This plan is a critical component of Rhode Island’s legal framework for addressing climate change, outlining specific targets and strategies for reducing emissions across various sectors. The council’s role is to ensure that these plans are developed in a coordinated manner, involving relevant state agencies and stakeholders, and that progress towards achieving the mandated emission reductions is monitored. The law mandates that the council consult with various entities, including the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, the Coastal Resources Management Council, and other relevant state agencies, to ensure a comprehensive and integrated approach to climate change mitigation and adaptation. The council is also responsible for periodic review and revision of the plan to reflect scientific advancements and evolving policy landscapes.

The Rhode Island General Laws, specifically Chapter 42-6.6, established the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Task Force and set forth legally binding targets for greenhouse gas emission reductions. The Act mandates a 45% reduction from 2001 levels by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050. This legal framework provides the foundational authority for state agencies to develop and implement regulations aimed at achieving these targets. The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) is the primary agency tasked with this responsibility, often developing regulations under the Administrative Procedures Act (APA), Chapter 42-35. These regulations must be consistent with the statutory mandates. The question probes the legal basis for regulatory action in Rhode Island concerning climate change, emphasizing the statutory authority that empowers agencies like DEM to act. The correct answer reflects this direct legislative mandate. Other options are less precise: while federal law (like the Clean Air Act) can influence state actions, it is not the direct statutory basis for Rhode Island’s specific reduction targets. Executive orders can direct agency action but do not independently create binding emission reduction mandates in the same way as legislation. Local ordinances, while important for implementation, do not set the overarching statewide emission reduction targets.

The Rhode Island General Laws Title 42, Chapter 42-6.1, establishes the Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Program (CRMP). This program is the primary legal framework for managing the state’s coastal zone, which is particularly vulnerable to climate change impacts such as sea-level rise and increased storm intensity. Section 42-6.1-1 mandates the development and implementation of policies and regulations to protect and manage the coastal zone. Section 42-6.1-3 specifically directs the Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC) to consider the impacts of climate change, including sea-level rise, in its planning and regulatory decisions. The CRMC’s regulations, particularly those found in the “Red Book” (Coastal Resources Management Program: Policies and Regulations), outline specific requirements for development in designated Special Area Management Plans (SAMs) and other coastal zones, often incorporating setback requirements and elevation standards to mitigate future risks. The Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience Act (Chapter 42-14.5) further strengthens these efforts by requiring state agencies to incorporate climate change adaptation into their planning and operations, with a focus on resilience. Therefore, when a proposed development project in a Rhode Island coastal zone faces potential impacts from sea-level rise, the CRMC, acting under the authority of Title 42, Chapter 42-6.1 and informed by the Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience Act, would be the primary state agency responsible for ensuring that the project’s design and siting adequately address these projected climate impacts through its regulatory review process.

The Rhode Island General Laws § 42-6.1-4 establishes the Rhode Island Coastal Zone Management Program, which is the primary legal framework for addressing climate change impacts in the state’s coastal areas. This program mandates the integration of climate change considerations into land use planning, resource management, and development decisions. Specifically, it requires state agencies and municipalities to consider projected sea-level rise and increased storm intensity when reviewing permits and developing regulations. The law also emphasizes the importance of public participation and scientific input in developing and implementing coastal management strategies. The question asks about the foundational legal instrument for integrating climate change into Rhode Island’s coastal management. The Rhode Island Coastal Zone Management Program, as codified in the General Laws, directly addresses this by requiring the incorporation of climate change impacts into various planning and regulatory processes within the coastal zone, which is particularly vulnerable to climate-related hazards like sea-level rise and increased storm surge. Other options are either too general, focus on different aspects of environmental law not directly tied to coastal climate adaptation, or are not the primary legislative mandate for this specific integration.

The Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Program (CRMP) is the primary regulatory framework for coastal development and resource protection in the state. Under the CRMP, projects impacting coastal features, including those related to climate change adaptation, are subject to review and permitting. Section 301.14 of the CRMP regulations defines “Significant Coastal Feature” broadly to include areas subject to storm flooding, erosion, and sea-level rise. The “Resilient RI Act” (Rhode Island General Laws § 46-23-27 et seq.) mandates that state agencies consider climate change impacts, including sea-level rise, in their planning and decision-making processes, particularly for coastal infrastructure and development. When a proposed project, such as the construction of a new seawall in a coastal community like Westerly, is assessed for its potential impact on these significant coastal features, the CRMP review process will evaluate whether the project adequately addresses projected sea-level rise and increased storm surge intensity. This evaluation often involves analyzing proposed mitigation measures and their effectiveness in maintaining the ecological and physical integrity of the coastline. The CRMP’s “special area management plans” (SAMPs), such as the Southern Rhode Island SAMP, provide specific policies and guidance for development within particular coastal zones, further refining the review process for climate resilience projects. Therefore, a project’s consistency with the CRMP’s policies on sea-level rise and storm hazard mitigation is paramount.

The Rhode Island General Laws § 42-6.6-1 et seq., specifically the Resilient Rhode Island Act of 2014, mandates the development and implementation of a comprehensive climate change adaptation strategy. This act requires state agencies to consider climate change impacts in their planning, policies, and actions. The state’s Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Act of 2014, codified in Rhode Island General Laws § 23-18.10-1 et seq., sets ambitious targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Specifically, it mandates a 45% reduction from 1990 levels by 2035 and net-zero emissions by 2050. The act also establishes a Climate Change Coordinating Council to oversee progress and advise the governor. Section 23-18.10-5 outlines the requirement for the council to develop and update a climate change adaptation plan, which must be integrated into state agency operations. The question probes the practical application of these mandates by asking about the primary mechanism for ensuring state agencies align their operations with these climate goals. The correct answer reflects the statutory requirement for integration into agency planning and operations, which is the core enforcement and implementation mechanism. Other options, while related to climate action, do not represent the direct statutory obligation for agency integration. For instance, voluntary reporting, while encouraged, is not the primary legal driver for compliance. Public awareness campaigns support broader goals but are not the direct mechanism for ensuring agency operational alignment. Specific project funding, while important, is a consequence of planning rather than the foundational requirement for integration.

The Rhode Island General Laws (RIGL) Section 42-6.2-1 et seq., establishes the Rhode Island Coastal Management Program (RICMP). This program mandates that state agencies undertake actions consistent with the RICMP’s objectives, which include protecting coastal resources and promoting sustainable development. When considering the implementation of new energy infrastructure projects that may impact coastal zones, such as offshore wind farms or expanded port facilities for renewable energy components, the RICMP serves as a critical framework. The law requires that all state actions, including permitting and regulatory decisions, be reviewed for their consistency with the RICMP’s policies. These policies are designed to balance economic development with environmental protection, particularly in the context of climate change adaptation and mitigation. Therefore, any proposed project must undergo a rigorous review process to ensure it aligns with the state’s commitment to coastal resilience and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, as outlined in the RICMP and related climate action plans. This involves assessing potential impacts on coastal habitats, water quality, and the overall ecological integrity of the marine environment, while also considering the project’s contribution to Rhode Island’s renewable energy goals. The legal obligation to demonstrate consistency with the RICMP is a fundamental requirement for obtaining necessary permits and approvals for such projects within Rhode Island’s jurisdiction.

The Rhode Island General Laws Title 42, Chapter 42-13.1, known as the Resilient Rhode Island Act of 2014, establishes a framework for climate change adaptation and mitigation. This act mandates the development of a statewide climate change adaptation plan and requires state agencies to incorporate climate change considerations into their planning, policies, and actions. Specifically, the law emphasizes a whole-of-government approach and encourages collaboration among state agencies, municipalities, and stakeholders. It also provides for the establishment of a Climate Change Coordinating Council to oversee the implementation of the adaptation plan. The act does not, however, create a direct, private right of action for individuals to sue state agencies for failing to meet specific adaptation targets outlined in the plan. Instead, enforcement mechanisms are primarily administrative and regulatory, involving agency compliance with mandated planning and integration processes. Therefore, a lawsuit directly challenging an agency’s adherence to a specific adaptation metric without a statutory basis for private litigation would likely be unsuccessful. The focus is on systemic integration and planning, not on individual claims for non-compliance with specific plan elements.

Rhode Island’s climate change legal framework, particularly as it relates to greenhouse gas emissions reduction and adaptation strategies, often involves the interplay between state-level mandates and federal regulatory schemes. The Rhode Island General Laws (RIGL) Chapter 42-6.2, the “Rhode Island Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Sequestration Act,” establishes ambitious emission reduction targets. Specifically, RIGL § 42-6.2-3 mandates a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions to 45% below 1990 levels by 2030. This is a foundational piece of legislation. The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) is tasked with developing and implementing regulations to achieve these targets, often through the Rhode Island Energy Facility Siting Act (RIGL Chapter 39-23) which can influence the siting and operation of energy facilities impacting emissions. Furthermore, the state’s participation in regional initiatives like the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) is a key mechanism for achieving these reductions, particularly in the power sector. RGGI operates as a market-based program that caps and reduces carbon dioxide emissions from the power sector in participating states. The revenue generated from the auction of emission allowances is then reinvested in projects that further reduce emissions and promote clean energy, as outlined in Rhode Island’s Climate Change Action Plan. The question tests the understanding of the specific statutory target for emission reduction by a particular year, which is a core component of Rhode Island’s climate law. The calculation is simply identifying the legally mandated percentage reduction from the baseline year.

The question concerns the legal framework governing greenhouse gas emissions reductions in Rhode Island, specifically focusing on the mechanisms provided by Rhode Island General Laws Chapter 42-131, the “Rhode Island Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Act of 2014.” This act mandates the establishment of a Renewable Energy Standard (RES) and the adoption of regulations to achieve specific greenhouse gas reduction targets. The Rhode Island Executive Climate Change Coordinating Council (EC4) is tasked with developing a comprehensive plan to meet these targets. The law specifies that the state’s greenhouse gas emissions in 2006 are the baseline. The act requires a 45% reduction from this baseline by 2035. Therefore, to calculate the target emission level for 2035, we take the 2006 baseline emissions and multiply it by \(1 – 0.45\). If the 2006 baseline is represented as \(E_{2006}\), the target for 2035 is \(E_{2035} = E_{2006} \times (1 – 0.45) = E_{2006} \times 0.55\). This means the target emissions for 2035 are 55% of the 2006 baseline emissions. The question tests the understanding of the specific percentage reduction target and the corresponding remaining emission level as mandated by Rhode Island law for a particular future year. This involves applying the percentage reduction to the baseline to determine the allowable emissions.

The Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Program (CRMP) is the primary legal and regulatory framework for addressing coastal zone management, including climate change impacts. Specifically, the CRMP’s policies and regulations are designed to guide development and resource protection in coastal areas, which are particularly vulnerable to sea-level rise and increased storm intensity. When considering a new commercial development proposed for a coastal area in Rhode Island that is identified as being at high risk for future inundation due to climate change projections, the developer must demonstrate how their project complies with the CRMP’s established policies. This includes assessing potential impacts on coastal habitats, ensuring the project does not exacerbate erosion or flooding, and incorporating adaptation measures. Rhode Island General Laws Title 46, Chapter 23, establishes the CRMP and grants the Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC) the authority to develop and enforce its policies. The CRMP’s approach to climate change adaptation is integrated into its broader mandate of protecting and managing the state’s coastal resources, emphasizing resilience and sustainability. Therefore, the developer’s proposal must undergo a thorough review against these CRMP policies to ensure its compatibility with Rhode Island’s climate change adaptation goals for the coastal zone.

The Rhode Island Resilient Coastal Communities Program (RCCP) is a key initiative designed to help municipalities prepare for and adapt to the impacts of climate change, particularly sea-level rise and storm surge. The program provides technical assistance and grant funding to municipalities for developing vulnerability assessments, adaptation plans, and implementing adaptation projects. A core component of the RCCP is the integration of climate change projections into local planning processes, which includes land use planning, zoning ordinances, and building codes. Rhode Island General Laws § 45-22.4-1 et seq., concerning municipal planning and land use, allows for the incorporation of climate change considerations. Specifically, the state’s planning enabling act provides a framework for municipalities to adopt plans that address hazards and promote public health, safety, and welfare, which inherently includes climate resilience. The RCCP’s methodology often involves scenario planning using projections from the Rhode Island Statewide Planning Program or the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which typically extend to the year 2100. When a municipality revises its comprehensive plan or zoning ordinances to incorporate climate resilience measures, such as setbacks from the shore or restrictions on development in flood-prone areas, these revisions must be consistent with the state’s planning goals and the enabling legislation. The RCCP’s guidance emphasizes a science-based approach, utilizing the best available climate data. Therefore, a municipality’s adoption of a zoning amendment that explicitly references and is based on projected sea-level rise scenarios for the year 2100, as outlined in state-endorsed climate projections, would be a direct application of the principles and authorities supported by Rhode Island’s land use planning statutes and the RCCP framework. This aligns with the state’s overarching goal of fostering climate-resilient communities and ensuring the long-term sustainability of its coastal areas.

The Rhode Island General Laws, specifically Title 42, Chapter 42-6.1, establishes the Rhode Island Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act of 2014. This act mandates a statewide greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of 45% below 1990 levels by 2035. The legal framework for achieving these reductions is primarily guided by the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM). The DEM is responsible for developing and implementing regulations, plans, and programs to meet these mandated targets. This includes the development of a Renewable Energy Standard (RES) and the participation in regional cap-and-trade programs like the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI). While the Act sets the overarching goals, the specific mechanisms for achieving them, such as the Renewable Energy Standard’s percentage requirements and the compliance pathways for regulated entities under RGGI, are detailed in administrative rules promulgated by the DEM. The legal authority to enforce these regulations and to set compliance schedules rests with the DEM, acting under the authority granted by the General Assembly through the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act. Therefore, any legal challenge or interpretation concerning the implementation of these emissions reductions would focus on the DEM’s adherence to the statutory mandates and the validity of its promulgated regulations under Rhode Island administrative law.

The Rhode Island General Laws Chapter 42-6.2, the Rhode Island Energy Facility Siting Act, governs the siting and operation of energy facilities within the state. Section 42-6.2-12 specifically addresses the environmental impact statement (EIS) requirement for proposed energy facilities. This section mandates that the state’s Energy Facility Siting Board (EFSB) consider the environmental, economic, and social impacts of a proposed facility. While the Act itself does not explicitly mandate a separate climate impact assessment as a standalone document, the broad language concerning “environmental impacts” necessitates the consideration of climate change effects. This includes analyzing greenhouse gas emissions from the facility’s construction and operation, its contribution to sea-level rise vulnerabilities due to its location (especially relevant for coastal Rhode Island), and its alignment with the state’s greenhouse gas reduction targets as outlined in Rhode Island General Laws Chapter 42-13.1, the “Rhode Island Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Act of 2014.” Therefore, an EIS prepared under Chapter 42-6.2 must, by implication and the necessity of considering all environmental impacts, incorporate a thorough assessment of climate change-related factors, including projected emissions and potential impacts on the state’s climate mitigation goals and adaptation strategies. The EFSB’s review process, informed by the EIS, will then weigh these climate considerations alongside other environmental and economic factors.

The Rhode Island Resilient Coastal Communities Act (RICCA), enacted in 2014, mandates that state agencies consider climate change impacts, particularly sea-level rise and storm surge, in their planning, permitting, and regulatory decisions. Specifically, the Act requires the integration of climate change projections into the Rhode Island Coastal Management Program and other relevant state land use and environmental regulations. The Act aims to ensure that new development and infrastructure projects in coastal zones are designed to withstand projected future climate conditions. This proactive approach is crucial for protecting public safety, natural resources, and economic assets along Rhode Island’s extensive coastline. The RICCA’s provisions are implemented through various state agency actions, including the Department of Environmental Management (DEM) and the Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC), which develop and enforce regulations and guidance documents. The Act emphasizes adaptive management strategies and the use of the best available science for climate change projections.

The Rhode Island General Laws (RIGL) Section 42-6.2-3 establishes the Rhode Island Climate Change Coordinating Council and outlines its powers and responsibilities. This council is tasked with developing and coordinating the implementation of a comprehensive climate change strategy for the state. RIGL 42-6.2-5 specifically mandates the council to review and provide recommendations on proposed state agency actions that may have a significant impact on greenhouse gas emissions or climate resilience. This review process ensures that state-level decision-making aligns with the state’s overarching climate goals. The council’s authority is primarily advisory and coordinative, focusing on policy integration and strategic planning rather than direct regulatory enforcement, which typically falls under individual agency mandates. Therefore, when a state agency proposes a project that could substantially alter the state’s greenhouse gas emission trajectory, the council’s role is to assess the project’s alignment with the state’s climate mitigation and adaptation plans, providing a critical advisory opinion to inform the agency’s final decision.

The Rhode Island General Laws (RIGL) Chapter 42-13.5, the “Resilient Rhode Island Act,” establishes the framework for addressing climate change impacts. Section 42-13.5-4 mandates the development of a climate change adaptation and mitigation strategy, which is to be updated periodically. This strategy is a cornerstone of the state’s climate policy. The Act also establishes the Governor’s Climate Change Coordinating Council (GCCCC) to oversee and guide these efforts. While the Act emphasizes interagency coordination and public engagement, its core directive regarding the strategy’s development and updating is central to its implementation. The question probes the foundational legal requirement for the state’s comprehensive climate action plan, which is the development and regular revision of the climate change adaptation and mitigation strategy as stipulated in the Act. The other options, while potentially related to climate action, do not represent the primary statutory mandate for the state’s overarching climate plan as defined in RIGL Chapter 42-13.5. For instance, establishing a carbon pricing mechanism or setting specific greenhouse gas emission reduction targets are policy outcomes that may stem from the strategy, but the strategy itself is the foundational legal requirement for the plan’s existence and evolution.

The Rhode Island Resilient Coastal Communities Act (RICCA), enacted in 2014, mandates that state agencies and municipalities incorporate climate change impacts, particularly sea-level rise and storm surge, into their planning and regulatory processes. Specifically, the Act requires the development and implementation of adaptation strategies. While the Act does not set a specific percentage reduction target for greenhouse gas emissions, it establishes a framework for considering climate resilience. The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) is tasked with developing and implementing regulations and guidance to support the Act’s objectives, including the establishment of stormwater management rules that account for future precipitation patterns and sea-level rise. The Act’s emphasis is on adaptation and planning for the unavoidable impacts of climate change, rather than solely on mitigation of emissions, although mitigation is a broader goal of state climate policy. Therefore, a municipality seeking to align its zoning ordinances with the RICCA would focus on land use planning that accounts for projected sea-level rise and storm surge impacts, ensuring new development is sited and constructed to withstand these future conditions. This involves reviewing flood maps, considering updated elevation certificates, and potentially restricting development in vulnerable areas.

The Rhode Island General Laws, specifically Title 42, Chapter 42-6.1, establishes the Rhode Island Climate Change Coordinating Council. This council is mandated to develop and implement a comprehensive climate change strategy for the state. Key provisions within this chapter outline the council’s composition, responsibilities, and the framework for state-level climate action planning. The law emphasizes interagency coordination and the integration of climate change considerations into existing state policies and programs. It also directs the council to consider scientific data, economic impacts, and social equity in its recommendations. The council’s role is advisory and planning-oriented, providing a strategic roadmap rather than direct regulatory enforcement powers, which are typically vested in individual state agencies. The establishment of this council signifies a legislative commitment to a coordinated, state-wide approach to addressing the multifaceted challenges of climate change, encompassing mitigation, adaptation, and resilience. The law requires the council to submit regular progress reports to the Governor and the General Assembly, ensuring accountability and ongoing engagement with legislative oversight.

Rhode Island’s approach to climate change adaptation and mitigation is multifaceted, often involving the integration of state-level policies with federal guidance and regional initiatives. The Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Program (CRMP) is a key regulatory framework that addresses the impacts of climate change, particularly sea-level rise and increased storm intensity, on coastal communities and ecosystems. The CRMP’s authority extends to permitting and land use planning in coastal zones, requiring consideration of climate vulnerability. When evaluating the legal standing of a proposed development project in a designated coastal hazard area, a thorough review of the CRMP regulations, including specific provisions for climate resilience and adaptation, is paramount. This involves assessing whether the project’s design, location, and mitigation measures adequately address projected sea-level rise and storm surge impacts as outlined in the CRMP’s most recent updates and any associated guidance documents from the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM). Furthermore, understanding the interplay between state environmental laws, such as the Rhode Island Environmental Rights Act, and federal laws like the Coastal Zone Management Act, is crucial for a comprehensive legal analysis. The Act to Facilitate the Transition to a Green Economy, while broader in scope, also informs the state’s climate policy landscape by encouraging sustainable practices and renewable energy development, which indirectly impacts land use decisions in coastal areas by shaping the overall economic and environmental context. Therefore, the legal basis for a permit decision would hinge on demonstrating compliance with the CRMP’s specific climate adaptation requirements and the broader state legislative intent to foster resilience.

The question asks to identify the primary legal mechanism Rhode Island employs to ensure that greenhouse gas emission reduction targets, established by its General Assembly, are integrated into the state’s land use planning and permitting processes. Rhode Island General Laws Chapter 42-6.6, the “Rhode Island Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Act of 2014,” mandates the establishment of greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction goals. Crucially, this act, along with subsequent amendments and related administrative rules, directs state agencies to consider these GHG goals in their decision-making. Specifically, the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) and the Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC) are tasked with implementing regulations that incorporate climate change mitigation strategies into permitting and planning. The concept of “climate change resilience and adaptation” is a broader goal, and while related, it is not the direct legal mechanism for integrating emission reduction targets into land use. Similarly, “renewable energy portfolio standards” are a tool for promoting clean energy but do not directly mandate the integration of GHG reduction targets into general land use planning. “Environmental impact statements” are a procedural requirement for certain projects but do not, by themselves, ensure the systematic integration of state-wide GHG reduction targets into all land use decisions. The most direct and comprehensive legal framework for this integration is the state’s regulatory authority to require consideration of climate change impacts and mitigation strategies within its environmental review and land use permitting processes, as guided by the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Act and its implementing regulations.

The Rhode Island General Laws, specifically Title 42, Chapter 42-13.5, establishes the Rhode Island Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Reduction Mandates. This chapter mandates specific percentage reductions in GHG emissions from a 1990 baseline. For the year 2030, the law requires a reduction of 40% below the 1990 levels. The calculation to determine the target emission level for 2030 involves taking the 1990 baseline emission level and multiplying it by (1 – the mandated percentage reduction). If the 1990 baseline emission level was, for example, 10,000 kilotons of CO2 equivalent, the target for 2030 would be \(10,000 \times (1 – 0.40) = 10,000 \times 0.60 = 6,000\) kilotons of CO2 equivalent. This legal framework is crucial for understanding Rhode Island’s commitment to climate mitigation and the mechanisms by which these reductions are to be achieved, including potential regulatory actions and policy development by state agencies. The law also outlines provisions for review and potential adjustments to these targets based on scientific advancements and economic conditions, emphasizing a dynamic approach to climate policy.

The Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Program (CRMP) plays a pivotal role in addressing climate change impacts, particularly sea-level rise and storm surge, along the state’s extensive coastline. The CRMP’s authority stems from Chapter 46-23 of the Rhode Island General Laws. This chapter mandates the development and implementation of a comprehensive coastal management plan. Key to its effectiveness is the integration of climate change projections into its policies and regulations, particularly concerning development in designated Special Area Management Plans (SAMs) and Assateague Coastal Management Zones (ACZ). The CRMP’s regulatory framework, established through the RICRMP Regulations, requires consideration of long-term climate impacts, including sea-level rise, in permitting decisions for new construction and substantial redevelopment within the shore zone. Specifically, the regulations often mandate setbacks, elevation requirements, and limitations on certain types of development in areas projected to be most vulnerable. The principle of “managed retreat” or strategic relocation of infrastructure and development from high-risk coastal areas is an evolving concept within the CRMP’s planning, though its direct regulatory mandate for mandatory relocation can be complex and often involves incentives or phased approaches rather than immediate force. The CRMP’s authority is not to directly levy carbon taxes, which is typically a legislative or federal fiscal matter, nor is its primary function to manage the state’s energy grid, which falls under the purview of the Public Utilities Commission and the state’s energy office. While the CRMP influences land use and development patterns that have indirect greenhouse gas emission implications, its direct legal authority is focused on coastal zone management and adaptation to climate impacts.

The Rhode Island General Laws, specifically Title 42, Chapter 42-6.1, establishes the Rhode Island Climate Change Coordinating Council. This council is mandated to develop and implement strategies to mitigate and adapt to climate change within the state. The law outlines the council’s composition, responsibilities, and reporting requirements. A key aspect of its function involves coordinating efforts across various state agencies and stakeholders to achieve greenhouse gas reduction targets and enhance resilience. The council’s authority extends to reviewing existing policies and proposing new legislation or regulations to align with climate goals. The question probes the understanding of the legal framework that underpins climate action coordination in Rhode Island, focusing on the specific statutory authority that empowers such a body. The correct option identifies the foundational legislation establishing this critical coordinating entity.

The Rhode Island General Laws Chapter 42-6.2, known as the “Resilient Rhode Island Act,” establishes a framework for climate change adaptation and mitigation. Specifically, Section 42-6.2-5 mandates the development and implementation of a comprehensive climate change strategy. This strategy is to be informed by scientific assessments and is intended to guide state agencies in their planning and regulatory activities. The act emphasizes a coordinated approach across state government to address the impacts of climate change. The development of sector-specific adaptation plans, as outlined in the act, is a crucial component of this strategy, requiring agencies to identify vulnerabilities and implement measures to enhance resilience. The Governor’s Office of Climate Change, established under this act, plays a central role in coordinating these efforts and ensuring the strategy’s effective implementation. The act also promotes public engagement and stakeholder input in the development and refinement of the climate change strategy.

The Rhode Island General Laws, specifically Title 42, Chapter 42-17.1, establish the Department of Environmental Management (DEM) and grant it broad powers to protect the environment. Section 42-17.1-1 outlines the department’s authority to adopt rules and regulations necessary to carry out its duties, which inherently include addressing environmental threats like climate change. While the Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Program (CRMP) is a critical tool for managing coastal impacts of climate change, it is a specific program under the broader authority of DEM. The Executive Office of Commerce is primarily focused on economic development, and the Public Utilities Commission regulates utility rates and services, not directly climate change mitigation or adaptation strategies in this context. Therefore, the foundational authority for DEM to implement climate change-related regulations stems from its general environmental protection mandate.

The Rhode Island General Laws, specifically Title 42, Chapter 42-14.1, establish the Executive Climate Change Coordinating Council (EC4). This council is tasked with developing and overseeing the implementation of a comprehensive climate change strategy for the state. The law mandates that the EC4 consider various factors when formulating this strategy, including the findings of the Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Program (CRMP) regarding sea-level rise and storm surge impacts, as well as recommendations from the Governor’s Task Force on Climate Change. Furthermore, the legislation emphasizes the importance of integrating greenhouse gas emission reduction targets into state agency planning and operations. The council’s authority extends to coordinating efforts across state departments and agencies to ensure a cohesive and effective response to climate change. The law also outlines a process for public engagement and stakeholder consultation during the development and review of the climate change strategy. Therefore, the foundational legal authority for the state’s overarching climate change policy framework and the establishment of the primary coordinating body resides within this specific legislative chapter.

The Rhode Island General Laws Title 42, Chapter 42-6.1, establishes the Rhode Island Climate Change Coordinating Council and outlines its powers and responsibilities. Specifically, Section 42-6.1-3 mandates the Council to develop and oversee the implementation of a comprehensive climate change adaptation and mitigation strategy for the state. This strategy is intended to address the multifaceted impacts of climate change on Rhode Island’s environment, economy, and public health. The Council is tasked with coordinating efforts across state agencies, municipalities, and other stakeholders to achieve the state’s greenhouse gas reduction targets and enhance resilience to climate-related hazards such as sea-level rise, increased storm intensity, and extreme heat. The legal framework emphasizes a proactive, integrated approach to climate action, recognizing the unique vulnerabilities of Rhode Island as a coastal state. The Council’s mandate includes reviewing existing policies, identifying gaps, and recommending legislative and regulatory changes to further the state’s climate goals. This foundational legislation provides the legal basis for much of Rhode Island’s climate policy and interagency coordination.