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HB 7778

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

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Sam Azzinaro and 9 co-sponsors

Rhode Island bill to establish municipal policies supporting construction and preservation of affordable housing for low to moderate income residents.

06/18/2026 Signed by Governor
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 7778

Legislative bill overview

HB 7778 appears to address low and moderate income housing policy at the municipal level in Rhode Island, though specific provisions are not detailed in the materials provided. The bill was recently introduced in February 2026 and is scheduled for a hearing in April 2026 before the House Municipal Government & Housing Committee.

Why is this important

Housing affordability is a significant policy challenge in Rhode Island, where median home prices have increased substantially while wages have not kept pace. Municipal-level housing policy can directly affect zoning regulations, development incentives, and affordability requirements that shape housing availability for residents earning below-median incomes.

Potential points of contention

  • Developer incentives vs. public costs: Measures that encourage low-income housing development may involve tax breaks, density bonuses, or public subsidies, raising questions about who bears the financial burden
  • Local control vs. state mandates: Towns and cities may resist state-level requirements that constrain local zoning authority or development decisions
  • Definition and enforcement: Disagreements may arise over what constitutes "low and moderate income," income targeting percentages, affordability duration, and compliance mechanisms

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

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