Bill > S0327

This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to Article 1 of the Rhode Island Constitution that would establish a fundamental environmental rights amendment, commonly known as a "Green Amendment". The proposed amendment would create an inherent, inalienable, and self-executing right for all Rhode Island residents to clean air, clean water, healthy soil, a life-supporting climate, and preservation of natural and recreational environmental values. The state would be designated as a trustee of natural resources, obligated to conserve and protect these resources for current and future generations. Critically, the amendment requires equitable protection of these environmental rights regardless of an individual's race, ethnicity, gender, or socioeconomic status. The resolution mandates that this proposed constitutional amendment be submitted to voters at the next statewide general election, with the secretary of state responsible for publishing the proposition in state newspapers and ensuring it is included in local meeting warrants. If approved by voters, the amendment would become effective on January 1, 2027.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://status.rilegislature.gov/