Bill > S1088

This bill amends the Rhode Island state law governing low- and moderate-income housing by modifying the definitions, approval procedures, and requirements for comprehensive permit applications. The bill introduces significant changes to how municipalities handle affordable housing development, including different standards for cities and towns based on their current percentage of low- and moderate-income housing. Key provisions include creating a new tiered approach for cities and towns with less than or more than 10% low-income housing, establishing more detailed requirements for housing unit integration and compatibility, and providing clearer guidelines for density bonuses and zoning incentives. The bill also refines the definition of low- and moderate-income housing, including how mobile homes and rental voucher properties are counted towards a municipality's housing inventory. Additionally, the bill provides more structured review processes for comprehensive permit applications, including optional master plan review and more detailed findings requirements for local review boards. The changes aim to balance municipal concerns with the need to increase affordable housing opportunities, with Section 1 taking effect immediately and Section 2 taking effect on January 1, 2026.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://status.rilegislature.gov/