Rhode IslandH72182026 Regular SessionHouse

AN ACT RELATING TO HIGHWAYS -- CROOK POINT BRIDGE AUTHORITY ACT .

Sponsored By: Rebecca M. Kislak (Democratic)

Signed by Governor

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

4 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 3 mixed.

Tax-free status and no city liability

The Authority and its property, money, bonds, notes, and income are exempt from state taxes. Debts and bonds of the Authority are not debts of the City or State. Creditors and investors can claim only the Authority’s revenues or assets. This protects the City and State from repayment liability and lowers state tax revenue tied to the Authority.

New Crook Point Bridge Authority

The law creates the Crook Point Bridge Authority as an independent public body. It can own and care for the Crook Point Bascule Bridge and nearby land. It can plan and run projects to preserve, improve, and redevelop the site. Its work is treated as an essential public function.

Authority staff are not city/state workers

Authority employees are not city or state employees for any purpose. They are not automatically in city or state benefit or pension plans. They work under the Authority’s own personnel rules unless other laws apply.

Open meetings and local board rules

A three-member board runs the Authority. All must be Providence electors, appointed by the Mayor with City Council approval. Terms start at 1, 3, and 5 years, then five years after that. The Authority keeps full accounts and files a yearly report with the Mayor and City Council. Meetings and records are public, with limited executive sessions under state law. Board service is unpaid, but members get expense reimbursements and must follow state ethics rules.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Rebecca M. Kislak
Democratic • House

Cosponsors

Nathan W. Biah
Democratic • House
Christopher R. Blazejewski
Democratic • House
Anthony J. DeSimone
Democratic • House
Grace Diaz
Democratic • House
John J. Lombardi
Democratic • House
David Morales
Democratic • House
Enrique Sanchez
Democratic • House
Scott A. Slater
Democratic • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 63 • No: 2

House vote • 4/16/2026

CROOK POINT BRIDGE AUTHORITY ACT PASSAGE