Plain-English Summary
This joint resolution proposes an amendment to the Rhode Island Constitution, commonly referred to as the "Green Amendment," which would establish a fundamental, constitutional right to a healthy environment for all residents. If passed by a majority of the General Assembly, the proposition would be submitted to the state's qualified electors for their approval or rejection at the next statewide general election. This places the ultimate decision on whether to enshrine these environmental protections directly in the hands of Rhode Island voters.
Specifically, the amendment would add a new Section 25 to Article I of the state constitution, which houses the Declaration of Certain Constitutional Rights and Principles. It declares that all people have an inherent, inalienable, indefeasible, and self-executing right to clean air and water, healthy and uncontaminated soil, a safe and life-supporting climate, and the preservation of the environment's natural, scenic, and recreational values. Furthermore, it designates the state as the official trustee of Rhode Island's natural resources, mandating that the government actively conserve, protect, and maintain these resources for the benefit of both present and future generations.
Crucially, the amendment includes a strong equity provision. It explicitly requires the state to protect these environmental rights and natural resources equally for all people, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, or socioeconomic status, aiming to prevent marginalized communities from bearing a disproportionate burden of environmental harm. If approved by the voters at the ballot box, the constitutional amendment would officially take effect on January 1, 2027.
This bill asks voters if they want to add a new rule to the state constitution that says everyone has a right to clean air, clean water, and a healthy environment. It also makes the state government responsible for protecting nature for kids and future generations.