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HB 8279

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

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Greg Costantino and 1 co-sponsor

Rhode Island bill requiring towns and cities to increase low and moderate-income housing through zoning changes and development mandates to address affordability crisis.

04/10/2026 Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration (04/15/2026)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 8279

Legislative bill overview

HB 8279 addresses affordable housing requirements for Rhode Island municipalities. The bill, introduced by Representatives Greg Costantino and Paul Santucci, establishes or modifies regulations compelling towns and cities to include low and moderate-income housing in their development planning and zoning frameworks.

Why is this important

Housing affordability is a critical issue in Rhode Island, where median home prices have risen significantly while wages have not kept pace. This legislation attempts to increase the supply of affordable housing by requiring local governments to actively facilitate its development rather than leaving it to market forces alone, which could affect both housing availability and property tax bases across the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Local control vs. state mandate: Municipalities may resist state-imposed housing quotas or requirements as an infringement on local zoning authority and community planning autonomy
  • Developer incentives and costs: The bill likely requires clarification on what incentives (tax breaks, density bonuses) developers receive and whether costs are borne by municipalities, taxpayers, or private developers
  • Implementation feasibility: Questions about timelines, enforcement mechanisms, and how municipalities with limited budgets or land availability will meet requirements without detailed specifications in the bill text

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

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