House passes resolution letting Portsmouth alter tax-classification plan starting 12/31/2026

The Rhode Island House on March 12 approved House item number 7661, Substitute A, a city-and-town resolution that gives the town of Portsmouth the authority to adopt, repeal or modify its tax-classification plan for any year on or after Dec. 31, 2026.

Chairman Casey introduced the measure, saying, “It’s a resolution that enables the town of Portsmouth to adopt or repeal or modify their tax classification plan for any year on and after 12/31/2026.” Chairman Casey moved passage; the motion was seconded. The electronic vote registered 59 in favor and zero opposed; the clerk announced, “The act prevails.”

The resolution was presented as coming from the Portsmouth town council and, as a city-and-town measure, gives that local government explicit authority to make changes to its tax-classification structure for the calendar years specified. No amendments were offered on the floor and no debate lights were recorded before the vote.

What passed was a resolution enabling local action rather than a statewide tax-code rewrite; the House record shows the measure was forwarded following a single recorded floor vote. The clerk recorded the vote tally and the presiding officer declared the measure adopted.

Next steps: the measure will be transmitted as appropriate to the governor or other officials as required by procedure. The clerk’s announcement that the desk would transmit matters closed the item on today’s calendar.

Action details: Chairman Casey moved passage; the motion was seconded as noted in the floor record; vote tally 59–0; outcome: approved.