Rhode Island Office of Management and Budget Releases First Regulatory Review Report

Press Release

As part of his accelerated Regulatory Reform Initiative, Governor Lincoln D. Chafee today announced the release of the Period One Regulatory Look Back Report, which was issued by the Office of Management and Budget's (OMB) Office of Regulatory Reform (ORR).

"This report is a step forward for regulatory reform and is the first time our state has taken on the tremendous task to look internally for improvements to the regulatory process," Governor Chafee said. "It is an encouraging start, and we will continue to move toward our goal of a simpler regulatory process and an improved business climate for our state."

Launched in September 2012, this initiative will make Rhode Island more business-friendly by ensuring that regulatory costs do not outweigh benefits to the community, particularly those that fall more heavily on small businesses.

"Some regulatory entities exceeded my expectations, with fourteen submitting all of their regulations for review," Governor Chafee added. "There is more work to be done, but my administration remains committed to doing what it takes to make it easier to do business in Rhode Island."

The ORR report offered key findings and recommendations both to move forward in the 19-month review process, and to lay the groundwork for a proactive, continually monitored regulatory landscape. In addition to agency review submissions, this look-back used data from the Small Business Survey conducted earlier this year, as well as research into regulatory best practices.

"This report is the culmination of the Period One review of Rhode Island's existing regulations. The data provided by regulatory entities disclose new insight into the complex landscape of regulations and their effect on those they regulate. This is the beginning of partnership among our office, regulators and the business community to streamline the regulatory process," ORR Director Leslie Taito said.

A copy of this report is located on the Department of Administration website at http://www.doa.state.ri.us/reports. Businesses which need assistance with regulatory or permitting matters may contact the ORR staff at 401-574-8426.

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