Support Updating the Energy Facility Siting Act

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Providence, RI - Representative David Place (District 47- Burrillville, Glocester) is introducing legislation to reform the Energy Facility Siting Act. The existing legislation restricts public participation, lacks regulatory enforcement and excludes towns and cities due to budgetary constraints. The proposed House Bill 5446 would expand the EFSA from 3 to 7 members for substantial energy projects. The proposed updates include increasing public and municipal participation, increased environmental protections, a faster and more transparent application process, expansion of members, and compliance from construction to operation. This legislation has received support from Senator Jessica De La Cruz (District 23 - Burrillville. Glocester, and North Smithfield) and is co-sponsored by Representative Brian C. Newberry (District 48 – North Smithfield, Burrillville)

Rep. Place (District 47) commented, saying: “Thirty years ago, the General Assembly enacted the Energy Facility Siting Act which created the Energy Facility Siting Board. They have sole and unilateral authority to grant or deny permits to construct major energy facilities in Rhode Island. It is crucial we pass House Bill 5446 which will overhaul this outdated and inadequate piece of legislation” 

House Bill 5446 (An Act Relating to State Affairs and Government Energy Facility Siting Act) was introduced and referred to House Environment and Natural Resources and is scheduled for hearing and or considerations on Thursday February 28 at the Rhode Island State House.