Bill > H5674

This bill amends the Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act to prohibit landlords from inquiring about or requiring tenants to disclose their immigration or citizenship status. Specifically, landlords and their agents are banned from asking tenants, prospective tenants, occupants, or potential occupants about their immigration background or compelling them to make statements regarding their citizenship. The bill also prevents municipalities and housing agencies from forcing landlords to gather, report, or take actions based on tenants' immigration status. However, the law does provide exceptions: landlords can still comply with federal legal requirements and are permitted to request financial information or documentation to verify a prospective tenant's financial qualifications and identity. This legislation aims to protect tenants from potential discrimination based on their immigration status while maintaining landlords' ability to conduct standard tenant screening processes. The bill will take effect immediately upon its passage.

Justice

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