Bill > H5918

This bill requires landlords of residential properties built before 1978 to register specific lead hazard mitigation and rental property information with the Rhode Island Department of Health (DOH). The registration must include details such as landlord contact information, property management details, and a valid lead hazard conformance certificate. The information will be stored in a private, non-publicly accessible database that can only be accessed by tenants of the specific unit, government agencies, the judiciary, and entities with legitimate lead or code enforcement purposes. Landlords must initially register by October 1, 2025, and then re-register annually if any information changes. The bill introduces protections for landlords, including the ability to register free of charge, prevents the DOH from creating additional administrative burdens, and requires prompt issuance of lead documentation. Landlords who fail to register will be subject to civil fines ranging from $50 to $125 per month, with penalties to be used for lead hazard mitigation and prevention efforts. The bill also modifies existing language about retaliatory actions, clarifying that certain actions related to lead mitigation are not considered retaliatory. The legislation will take effect immediately upon passage.

Justice

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