Bill > S1093

This bill provides amendments to enable state agencies to develop housing on vacant, abandoned, or underutilized state-owned land, even if such development does not strictly conform to local comprehensive plans or zoning ordinances. The bill establishes a specific process by which a state agency can propose such a housing project, which requires holding a public hearing within 60 days and demonstrating several key criteria: the project must conform to the state guide plan, promote public health and welfare (particularly housing needs), attempt to use local design standards, obtain expert reports confirming no detrimental environmental or infrastructure impacts, and seek feedback from local municipal staff. Importantly, the bill creates an exception to local zoning and subdivision regulations for these state-led housing projects, provided they complete the required public hearing process. The bill also explicitly allows state agencies to partner with or transfer the developed property to nonprofit or private entities after project completion. By creating a streamlined pathway for developing housing on underused state lands, the legislation aims to address housing needs while providing a transparent and accountable process for such developments. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://status.rilegislature.gov/