HB 7904, Relating to State Affairs and Government - Climate Change - Resilient Rhode Island Act of 2014

Established targets for GHG reductions below 1990 levels of 10% by 2020, 45% by 2035, and 80% by 2050. Also created the Climate Change Coordinating Council

The Resilient Rhode Island Act established the Executive Climate Change Coordinating Council (EC4) in 2014. It is updated by the 2021 Act on Climate which codifies specific greenhouse gas reduction targets, establishes two advisory bodies - the EC4 Advisory Board and the EC4 Science and Technical Advisory Board, and incorporates consideration of climate change impacts

The Rhode Island Executive Climate Change Coordinating Council (EC4) was established to coordinate efforts between state agencies to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The EC4 will pursue GHG emissions reductions of 10% below 1990 levels by 2020, 45% below 1990 levels by 2035, and 80% below 1990 levels by 2050. State agencies must assist EC4 to develop programs to encourage state employees to reduce vehicle miles traveled and use public transportation when available. The Council will also work with municipalities to encourage sustainability; identify federal, state, and private funding opportunities that can be leveraged to reduce emissions in Rhode Island; and develop GHG emissions reduction strategies.

Executive Climate Change Coordinating Council (EC4)

The Rhode Island EC4 Advisory Board was established pursuant to the Resilient Rhode Island Act of 2014. The EC4 Advisory Board has thirteen full members, appointed by the Governor, House and Senate. Members include municipal representatives as well as those with expertise in economic policy, workforce development, protection of natural/cultural resources, energy planning, education, public health, and housing.

The EC4 Advisory Board is charged with advising the EC4 on all matters pertaining to the duties and powers of the Council, including evaluating and making recommendations regarding plans, programs, and strategies relating to climate change mitigation and adaptation. It shall also assist the EC4 in communication/outreach and improving public access to resources/information about climate change (both mitigation and adaptation) so as to build public support for making RI’s communities more resilient.

Executive Climate Change Coordinating Council (EC4)

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