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HB 7998

AN ACT RELATING TO STATE AFFAIRS AND GOVERNMENT -- 2021 ACT ON CLIMATE

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Karen Alzate and 9 co-sponsors

Rhode Island bill establishing statewide greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets and climate accountability mechanisms to address climate change mitigation.

04/07/2026 Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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Bill Summary · HB 7998

Legislative bill overview

HB 7998 is Rhode Island's 2021 Act on Climate, a comprehensive climate policy bill that establishes statewide greenhouse gas reduction targets and frameworks for achieving emissions reductions across state operations and the broader economy. The bill creates binding climate goals and accountability mechanisms to address climate change mitigation.

Why is this important

Climate legislation sets long-term environmental and economic policy affecting energy costs, job creation in renewable sectors, and state competitiveness in clean technology markets. Rhode Island's coastal geography makes sea-level rise and climate impacts particularly urgent policy concerns for the state's infrastructure and economy.

Potential points of contention

  • Economic costs vs. benefits: Disputes over whether emissions reduction timelines impose excessive compliance costs on businesses and consumers versus long-term savings from avoided climate damage
  • Implementation feasibility: Questions about whether Rhode Island can realistically achieve ambitious targets given current energy infrastructure and technological constraints
  • Regulatory scope: Disagreement over whether the bill appropriately balances regulatory requirements for businesses and individuals with government sector obligations

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

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