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SB 2681

AN ACT RELATING TO TOWNS AND CITIES -- HOUSING -- STATE-FUNDED RENTAL SUBSIDY PROGRAM

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jake Bissaillon and 1 co-sponsor

Creates a state-funded rental subsidy program to help eligible Rhode Island tenants cover part of their monthly rent.

05/07/2026 Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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Bill Summary · SB 2681

Summary: SB 2681 (Rhode Island) — AN ACT RELATING TO TOWNS AND CITIES — HOUSING — STATE-FUNDED RENTAL SUBSIDY PROGRAM

Overview

SB 2681 is a Rhode Island bill introduced in the 2026 session that establishes a state-funded rental subsidy program within the framework of housing policy for towns and cities. The bill is sponsored by Sen. Melissa Murray (co-sponsors: Sen. Jake Bissaillon). It was introduced on February 27, 2026 and referred to the Senate Finance Committee. A hearing/consideration was scheduled for May 7, 2026.

Purpose and Intent

  • Create a state-funded program designed to subsidize rental housing for eligible tenants.
  • Support local housing markets by providing stable subsidies that help residents afford housing in towns and cities.
  • Align with broader housing and affordability goals by leveraging state resources to reduce tenant cost burdens and potentially stabilize rental markets.

Key Provisions and Changes (as described by the bill title and context)

  • Establishment of a State-Funded Rental Subsidy Program:
    • A formal program operated or administered at the state level to provide rental assistance to tenants.
    • Subsidies are intended to offset a portion of monthly rent paid by eligible households.
  • Eligibility and Administration (typical features expected in such programs):
    • Criteria likely include income limits, household size, and possibly categorical needs (e.g., seniors, disabled, households with children), though exact specifics would be in the bill text.
    • Administration responsibilities may fall to a state agency or designated authority (e.g., housing, finance, or human services departments) with oversight by a legislative or executive body.
  • Funding and Resources:
    • The program would be funded through state allocations, with potential formulas or cap amounts to determine annual funding and per-tenant subsidy levels.
    • Provisions may address remaining liabilities, grant matching, or coordination with existing federal or local programs (e.g., HUD programs, low-income housing credits) to maximize resources.
  • Program Scope:
    • Potentially targeted to specific municipalities or to state-wide participation, with emphasis on addressing housing shortages and ensuring subsidies reach households most in need.
    • Provisions may address tenant protections, such as timely subsidy disbursement schedules and safeguards against eviction related to subsidy stoppage.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Tenants:
    • Eligible Rhode Island residents seeking affordable rental housing would have access to monthly rental subsidies.
    • Subsidy amounts and duration would determine the net rent paid by households.
  • Landlords:
    • Landlords participating in the program would receive subsidy payments from the state to cover portion of rent, improving tenant timeliness and occupancy.
  • Local Governments:
    • Towns and cities could see changes in housing availability, stabilization of rental markets, and potential administrative coordination requirements.
  • State Agencies:
    • Agencies responsible for housing, finance, or social services would implement and oversee the program, manage funding, and monitor outcomes.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Introduction and Referral:
    • Introduced on February 27, 2026 and referred to the Senate Finance Committee for initial consideration.
  • hearings:
    • A hearing/consideration was scheduled for May 7, 2026, indicating a step in the legislative process where testimony and questions would shape refinement of the bill.
  • Next Steps (typical process if advanced):
    • Committee marks up the bill with amendments.
    • Submission to the full Senate for debate and a vote.
    • If approved, potential reconciliation with House version (if applicable) and final passage before session adjournment, followed by any required gubernatorial action.

Potential Impact and Considerations

  • Housing Affordability:
    • The program could meaningfully reduce monthly rent burdens for low- to moderate-income households, contributing to greater housing stability.
  • Market Effects:
    • Subsidies may increase tenant retention and reduce vacancy rates for subsidizing landlords; impacts on market rents would depend on cap structures and program design.
  • Administrative Burden:
    • Implementation would require robust eligibility determination, timely subsidy disbursement, and monitoring to prevent fraud and ensure compliance.
  • Fiscal Implications:
    • The bill would create ongoing state obligations; the magnitude depends on per-tenant subsidy limits, funding caps, and anticipated participation.

This summary provides an outline based on the bill’s title, sponsor information, and stated action history. For a complete understanding, the full text of SB 2681 and any amendments considered in committee should be reviewed.

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

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