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HB 8178

AN ACT RELATING TO PUBLIC UTILITIES AND CARRIERS -- TRANSPORTATION INVESTMENT AND DEBT REDUCTION ACT OF 2011

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Karen Alzate and 10 co-sponsors

HB 8178 creates transportation funding and debt reduction mechanisms by imposing obligations on public utilities and carriers to finance Rhode Island's infrastructure needs.

04/14/2026 Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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Bill Summary · HB 8178

Legislative bill overview

HB 8178 is Rhode Island's Transportation Investment and Debt Reduction Act of 2011, which addresses public utilities and carriers through transportation funding mechanisms. The bill aims to generate revenue for infrastructure investment while managing state debt obligations related to transportation projects. Specific provisions would modify how utilities and transportation carriers contribute to or interact with state transportation funding.

Why is this important

Transportation infrastructure funding directly affects public transit quality, road conditions, and economic competitiveness. Utilities and carriers are major stakeholders whose compliance costs can influence service rates paid by consumers and businesses. The revenue mechanisms established determine whether transportation improvements are funded through taxes, fees, or public-private partnerships.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost allocation: Determining how much utilities and carriers should contribute versus general taxpayers raises fairness concerns about whether specific industries bear disproportionate burden
  • Rate impacts: Any fees or obligations imposed on utilities/carriers may increase costs passed to consumers through higher utility or transportation service rates
  • Debt management tradeoffs: Revenue dedicated to debt reduction means less available for new infrastructure investment, requiring prioritization decisions with different community benefits

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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