AGP Executive Report
Last update: 6 hours agoClimate Polling: New polling says 61% of likely voters believe extreme weather has become more frequent in the past five years, including majorities of Democrats, independents, and nearly half of Republicans—pushing back on claims that climate change is a “hoax.” Invasive Species: Rhode Island DEM is ramping up efforts to contain spotted lanternflies, warning that the insect spreads fast via transportation hubs and that tree-of-heaven removal can help protect orchards and vineyards. PFAS Fight: Rhode Island’s attorney general is part of a broader push against EPA rollbacks on “forever chemicals” in drinking water, arguing the changes would weaken testing, reporting, and treatment requirements. Stormwater Funding: Barrington has paused plans for a stormwater enterprise fund after concerns about adding another taxpayer fee, while Richmond and Hopkinton continue to clash over transfer station funding. Coastal Access: Governor’s Bay Day returns July 26 with free state beach parking and free saltwater fishing, plus a RIPTA fare waiver for the South County Express Beach Bus. Public Transit Planning: RIPTA is seeking input on a Metro Connector Study to expand high-capacity transit options in the Providence area. Wildlife Update: Gulf of Maine shark sightings are getting attention again, with experts noting multiple species—including basking sharks—are present and that conditions may be shifting. Weather & Safety: High surf advisories are in play along parts of the Rhode Island coast, and a cooler, drier stretch is expected after recent storms.
Note: AI summary from news headlines; neutral sources weighted more to help reduce bias in the result. Feedback is welcome. Please let us know if you have any comments or suggestions about the AGP Executive Report.