Bill > S0713

This bill amends Rhode Island's emergency management laws to establish mandatory procedures for municipalities during extreme temperature events, creating two new alert types: warming center alerts (for cold conditions) and cooling center alerts (for extreme heat). Under these alerts, municipalities must develop comprehensive plans to support at-risk individuals, defined as people living outdoors or in poorly insulated settings. When the National Weather Service forecasts temperatures below 36°F or heat index above 95°F for consecutive days, the emergency management director can declare an alert, triggering requirements for municipalities to open shelters seven days a week, 24 hours a day. Municipalities must provide updates about available resources through their websites, social media, and United Way's 211 service, and offer comfort provisions like blankets, cots, meals, and beverages. Municipalities receiving state or federal funding are mandated to keep these centers open during alert periods, and smaller municipalities can collaborate regionally to establish centers. The bill aims to protect vulnerable populations from potentially life-threatening weather conditions by ensuring accessible emergency shelters and coordinated community support during extreme temperature events.

Housing and Urban Affairs

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