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In a recent development in Rhode Island's trusts and estates sector, trustees and estate planners are being advised to review and potentially revise their clients' estate plans in light of significant tax law changes that have come into effect on July 1, 2025.The new tax law changes, which were passed by the Rhode Island legislature earlier this year, have raised the estate tax exemption amount from $1.5 million to $2 million. This means that individuals with estates valued at under $2 million will now be exempt from state estate tax, providing substantial relief for many Rhode Island residents.In addition to the increase in the estate tax exemption amount, the new law also includes provisions for portability, allowing surviving spouses to carry over any unused portion of their deceased spouse's estate tax exemption. This can potentially double the amount of assets that can be passed on to heirs tax-free for married couples.However, while these changes may benefit many individuals and families in Rhode Island, estate planners are cautioning that there may be unintended consequences for some trusts and estate plans that were created under the previous tax laws. Trusts that were designed to minimize estate tax liability for estates valued just above the old $1.5 million exemption threshold may now be unnecessary or even detrimental under the new law.As a result, trustees and estate planners are advising clients to review their estate plans to ensure that they are still in line with their goals and objectives in light of the new tax law changes. This may involve revising trust documents, updating beneficiary designations, or exploring new planning strategies to take advantage of the increased exemption amount and portability provisions.Overall, the recent tax law changes in Rhode Island are expected to have a significant impact on the trusts and estates landscape in the state. By staying informed and proactively addressing any necessary updates to estate plans, trustees and estate planners can help their clients navigate these changes and ensure that their assets are protected and distributed in accordance with their wishes.