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SB 906

AN ACT RELATING TO TOWNS AND CITIES -- HOUSING MAINTENANCE AND OCCUPANCY CODE

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Tiara Mack

SB 906 establishes housing maintenance and occupancy codes for Rhode Island municipalities to set residential property habitability standards and enforcement procedures.

05/15/2025 Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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Bill Summary · SB 906

Legislative bill overview

SB 906 would establish or modify housing maintenance and occupancy codes for Rhode Island towns and cities, setting standards for residential properties. The bill aims to ensure minimum habitability requirements and enforcement mechanisms across municipalities. Specific provisions are not detailed in the available action history, but the measure focuses on establishing baseline housing quality standards.

Why is this important

Housing codes directly affect tenant safety, property conditions, and public health by establishing enforceable standards for landlords. These regulations impact both renters seeking safe living conditions and property owners managing maintenance costs and compliance expenses. The bill's outcome will influence housing affordability, tenant protections, and municipal enforcement capabilities across Rhode Island.

Potential points of contention

  • Landlord compliance costs – Stricter codes may require property improvements that landlords pass through as rent increases, potentially reducing housing affordability
  • Municipal enforcement burden – Smaller towns may lack resources to inspect and enforce housing codes effectively, creating uneven implementation
  • Tenant access vs. privacy – Code enforcement requires property inspections, raising questions about landlord/tenant rights and inspection procedures

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

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