Rhode Island § 45-51-3 - Environmental Advocacy Act
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 45-51-3 — Environmental Advocacy Act, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 45-51-3. Environmental Advocacy Act
R.I. Gen. Laws § 45-51-3
§ 45-51-3. Powers and duties.
The municipal conservation commission shall:
(1) Receive complaints from residents or businesses within the municipality regarding safety of drinking water, water quality, or clean air, or other pollutants affecting the environment.
(2) Investigate any complaints requested by a state regulatory agency.
(3) Prepare a report with an appraisal of the validity of the clean air or water problem, the responsible parties, the remedial action required, and identification of the state agency with jurisdiction over the problem, and submit the report to the city council and office of mayor or town administrator.
(4) Serve as liaison for the city or town with all agencies charged under state law with enforcement of all laws and regulations pertaining to air and water quality as stated in subdivision (3).
(5) Serve as advocate for the municipality and its residents before the agency under whose jurisdiction the problem falls; with the objective of securing remedial action.
(6) Assist the office of solicitor in taking legal action to secure court orders requiring the responsible state agency to take remedial action when the action has been unduly delayed or neglected by the agency.
(7) Conduct public information activities to inform the community of the availability of the services of the commission.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 448, § 1; P.L. 2004, ch. 556, § 2.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 45-51-3
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 45-51-3 cover?
Section 45-51-3 ("Environmental Advocacy Act") is part of the Rhode Island General Laws, the codified statutory law of Rhode Island. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Rhode Island § 45-51-3?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 45-51-3" (Rhode Island). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Rhode Island law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Rhode Island official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Rhode Island attorney.
How does Rhode Island § 45-51-3 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Rhode Island can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Rhode Island.