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SB 274

AN ACT RELATING TO PROPERTY -- RESIDENTIAL LANDLORD AND TENANT ACT

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jonathon Acosta and 4 co-sponsors

Rhode Island enacts landlord-tenant law reforms affecting rental property rights, responsibilities, and tenant protections statewide.

07/02/2025 Signed by Governor
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 274

Legislative bill overview

SB 274 modifies Rhode Island's Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, establishing new protections and obligations for residential rental properties. The bill has been signed into law as of July 2, 2025, following passage through both chambers of the legislature.

Why is this important

Changes to landlord-tenant law directly affect millions of Rhode Island renters and property owners by altering their rights, responsibilities, and dispute resolution processes. These modifications influence housing affordability, tenant safety, property maintenance standards, and the rental market's overall functioning in the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Enforcement mechanisms: Questions about whether new protections are adequately enforceable or if penalties are sufficient to deter violations
  • Landlord compliance burden: Property owners may face increased administrative requirements, costs, or liability exposure that could affect rental prices
  • Scope of protections: Debate over whether provisions go far enough to protect vulnerable tenants or overstep into micromanaging property operations

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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