(a) The purpose of this chapter is to commence the process of developing a ballast water management program in Rhode Island by:
(1) Calling upon the department of environmental management to investigate and evaluate all relevant state, federal and international laws and policies relating to invasive species management generally and ballast water management specifically; and
(2) Directing the department of environmental management to report to the general assembly no later than January 15, 2002, regarding the results of the investigation, along with recommended options for establishing a ballast water management program in Rhode Island.
(b) In carrying out the purposes of this chapter, the department of environmental management shall coordinate with all relevant agencies and organizations, including but not limited to: the International Maritime Organization, the U.S. Coast Guard, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the National Oceanographic and Atmosphere Administration, the U.S. Department of Interior, the Rhode Island coastal resources management council, the Rhode Island economic development corporation, the University of Rhode Island, commercial shipping interests and environmental organizations.
History of Section.
P.L. 2001, ch. 173, § 1.