PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Officials in Rhode Island are trying to roll back red tape in an effort to jumpstart job creation in the economically troubled state.

Keith Stokes, executive director of the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation, said he has heard a "consistent outcry" from small business owners about the need to streamline the regulatory process.

Last year, the General Assembly approved a package of bills aimed at making it easier for firms to do business in the state. And former Gov. Donald Carcieri (kuh-CHEHR'-ee) signed an executive order establishing an office whose aim is to improve regulatory procedures — and help businesses navigate them.

View Comments

One ambulance company from Dartmouth, Mass., that wanted to expand into Rhode Island last year nearly gave up, saying the process had officials' heads spinning.

Looking for comments?
Find comments in their new home! Click the buttons at the top or within the article to view them — or use the button below for quick access.