Rhode Island · 2026 Regular Session · Bill
HB 7178: AN ACT RELATING TO PUBLIC UTILITIES AND CARRIERS -- SOLAR SITING ADVISORY TASKFORCE
In committee Official data
- Introduced
- In committee
- Passed one chamber
- Passed both chambers
- Enacted
Last official action: ·Record last updated:
Plain-language summary
HB 7178 is a bill introduced in the Rhode Island House on January 21, 2026. According to its official title, it concerns: AN ACT RELATING TO PUBLIC UTILITIES AND CARRIERS -- SOLAR SITING ADVISORY TASKFORCE. Primary sponsor: Evan Shanley (Democratic), Raymond Hull (Democratic), David Place (Republican), George Nardone (Republican), Mike Chippendale (Republican), Jon Brien (Independent), Bob Phillips (Democratic). Most recent recorded action (March 19, 2026): 03/19/2026 Committee recommended measure be held for further study.
Generated automatically from the official title, sponsor list, and status record only. It does not characterize the bill’s purpose or effects. How summaries are written
Official summary
Abstract published by the legislature (via Open States). Text as published by the legislature; reproduced verbatim.
Creates a taskforce to provide recommendations, advice and guidance to help expedite and provide technical assistance with regard to the development of solar energy systems on property owned by the state.
Sponsors
Sponsors by party (alphabetical): Democratic 3 · Independent 1 · Republican 3
| Name | Role | Party | Chamber | District |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Evan Shanley | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 24 |
| Raymond Hull | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 6 |
| David Place | Primary sponsor | Republican | House | 47 |
| George Nardone | Primary sponsor | Republican | House | 28 |
| Mike Chippendale | Primary sponsor | Republican | House | 40 |
| Jon Brien | Primary sponsor | Independent | House | 49 |
| Bob Phillips | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 51 |
“Support” is shown only as formal sponsorship recorded by the legislature. Roll-call votes are available on the official bill page.
Recent official actions
- 03/19/2026 Committee recommended measure be held for further study
- 03/13/2026 Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration (03/19/2026)
- 01/21/2026 Introduced, referred to House Corporations