Rhode Island § 46-23-30 - Coastal Resources Management Council

§ 46-23-30. Electronic permitting.

(a) On or before October 1, 2026, the coastal resources management council shall adopt and implement an electronic permitting platform pursuant to § 23-27.3-108.2 to utilize for all applications filed under this chapter. For purposes of this section, “electronic permitting” means use of computer-based tools and services that automate and streamline the application process to include, but not be limited to, task-specific tools for: applications; submission of plans; documents; reports; plan review; permitting; scheduling; supplemental submissions; project tracking; staff and committee comments; fee calculation and collection.

(b) The state building commissioner, with the assistance of the office of regulatory reform and the division of statewide planning, pursuant to the provisions of § 23-27.3-108.2 may promulgate rules and regulations to implement the provisions of this section.

(c) The coastal resources management council shall charge each applicant an additional one-tenth percent (.1%) of the total application fee for each application submitted. This additional amount shall be transmitted monthly to the state building office and shall be used to staff and support the purchase or lease and operation of a web-accessible service and/or system to be utilized for the uniform, statewide electronic submission, review, and processing of applications for permits and approvals.

(d) On or before October 1, 2026, notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter to the contrary, all acts, requirements, filings, and documents necessary to comply with the application process shall be conducted by means of electronic permitting.

(e) The department of business regulation shall reimburse annual fees and costs associated with compliance with this program in accordance with procedures established by the department.