WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 7565

AN ACT RELATING TO TOWNS AND CITIES -- LOW AND MODERATE INCOME HOUSING

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Greg Costantino and 3 co-sponsors

Rhode Island legislation addressing low and moderate-income housing development in municipalities, referred to committee with April 2026 hearing scheduled.

04/07/2026 Committee recommended measure be held for further study
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 7565

Legislative bill overview

HB 7565 addresses affordable housing development in Rhode Island towns and cities, likely through zoning reforms, incentives, or requirements related to low and moderate-income housing. The bill has been referred to the House Municipal Government & Housing Committee and is scheduled for hearing in April 2026.

Why is this important

Rhode Island, like many northeastern states, faces significant housing affordability challenges with median home prices and rents rising faster than wages. Legislative action on affordable housing can either facilitate or constrain new development, affecting both housing availability for lower-income residents and local municipal autonomy over land use decisions.

Potential points of contention

  • Local control vs. state mandate: Whether the bill imposes state-level affordable housing requirements that may limit municipal zoning authority
  • Developer incentives vs. public cost: Whether affordability is achieved through private development incentives (tax breaks, density bonuses) or public expenditure, and who bears the financial burden
  • Definition and permanence: How "low and moderate income" is defined, whether affordability requirements are permanent or temporary, and whether deed restrictions adequately protect long-term affordability

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

Sign in to ask a question.