2026-25

RESOLUTION OPPOSING THE GOVERNOR’S PROPOSED

$10 INCREASE TO CRUISE SHIP PASSENGER FEES

WHEREAS, the City of Newport is a historic coastal community whose economy is significantly supported by tourism, including cruise ship visitation; and

WHEREAS, cruise ship passengers contribute to the local economy by supporting Newport’s small businesses, cultural institutions, hospitality sector, and workforce; and

WHEREAS, the Governor of the State of Rhode Island, Daniel J. McKee, has proposed an increase of ten dollars ($10.00) to the existing cruise ship passenger fee; and

WHEREAS, this proposed fee increase was developed without sufficient consultation or collaboration with the City of Newport or other host communities most directly affected by cruise ship activity; and

WHEREAS, increasing cruise ship passenger fees may negatively impact Newport’s competitiveness as a port of call, potentially resulting in fewer cruise ship visits and reduced economic activity; and

WHEREAS, any decline in cruise ship visitation would disproportionately affect local small businesses, seasonal employees, and municipal revenues; and

WHEREAS, the City Council recognizes the importance of responsible tourism management and environmental stewardship, but believes such efforts should be developed collaboratively with host communities and supported by transparent analysis of economic impacts; and

WHEREAS, the City of Newport supports policies that balance economic vitality, environmental protection, and community quality of life, and believes unilateral fee increases risk undermining that balance; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT

RESOLVED, that the Newport City Council formally opposes the Governor's proposed ten dollar ($10.00) increase to cruise ship passenger fees; AND BE IT FURTHER

RESOLVED, that the City Council urges the Governor and the Rhode Island General Assembly to engage in meaningful dialogue with the City of Newport and other affected municipalities prior to implementing any changes to cruise ship fee structures; AND BE IT FURTHER

RESOLVED, that the City Council requests a comprehensive economic and operational impact analysis of any fee increases before such measures are enacted; AND BE IT FURTHER

RESOLVED, that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to Governor Daniel J. McKee, the President of the Rhode Island Senate, the Speaker of the Rhode Island House of Representatives, and Newport's delegation to the General Assembly.

STEPHANIE SMYTH
CHARLES M. HOLDER, JR.
LYNN UNDERWOOD CEGLIE
ELLEN PINNOCK

IN COUNCIL
READ AND PASSED
MARCH 4, 2026

LAURA C. SWISTAK, CMC
CITY CLERK