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HB 8141

AN ACT RELATING TO PROPERTY -- RESIDENTIAL TENANT'S RIGHT TO LEGAL REPRESENTATION ACT

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Edith Ajello and 9 co-sponsors

Rhode Island bill establishing tenants' right to attorney representation in eviction cases to improve access to legal defense against housing loss.

03/18/2026 Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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Bill Summary · HB 8141

Legislative bill overview

HB 8141 would establish a legal right for residential tenants to have attorney representation in eviction proceedings and other landlord-tenant disputes in Rhode Island. The bill aims to ensure tenants have access to qualified legal counsel during court proceedings that could result in loss of housing.

Why is this important

Eviction proceedings often result in housing loss, damaged credit, and long-term economic hardship for tenants who may lack understanding of their legal rights. Studies show that tenants with legal representation achieve significantly better outcomes—including staying in their homes or negotiating better settlement terms—compared to those without attorneys. This bill addresses an imbalance in eviction proceedings where landlords frequently have legal representation while many tenants cannot afford counsel.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding: Who bears the financial burden of providing free or subsidized legal representation—taxpayers, courts, or landlords—and at what expense?
  • Impact on eviction timelines: Legal representation could slow eviction proceedings, raising concerns from landlords about delayed access to properties and rental income while potentially helping tenants avoid homelessness
  • Scope definition: Whether the right applies to all evictions, only no-fault evictions, or specific circumstances; and which other landlord-tenant matters qualify

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

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