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

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lou DiPalma and 1 co-sponsor

When Tiverton’s affordable housing falls below 10%, at least 50% of new units in approved projects must be affordable until full compliance is achieved.

05/12/2026 Committee recommended measure be held for further study

Overview

SB 2582 (Rhode Island, 2026) would amend Tiverton’s affordable housing requirements by authorizing the town to require that, whenever the town has less than 10% affordable housing, at least 50% of newly constructed units in any approved plan, permit, or project be affordable housing units. The measure becomes effective upon passage.

Purpose and intent

Ensure a minimum threshold of affordable housing in Tiverton by mandating a higher share of affordable units in new development during periods of low affordability.

Target a can-fill gap in the town’s affordable housing stock by leveraging development activity to increase affordable housing supply.

Key provisions

New provision added to Chapter 45-53 (Low and Moderate Income Housing), Section 45-53-17:

Applicability: In Tiverton, if the town’s affordable housing stock falls below 10% (as measured under § 45-53-3.1), the following applies.
Requirement: For any developer building under an approved plan, permit, or project, at least 50% of the units must be affordable housing units.
Duration: The 50% requirement remains in effect until Tiverton achieves full compliance with affordable housing requirements of Chapter 53 of Title 45.

Effective date: The act takes effect upon passage (no delayed or phased implementation specified).

Who is affected

Developers and builders undertaking approved plans, permits, or projects in Tiverton.

Tiverton town planning and zoning authorities, which would apply and enforce the 50% affordable-housing requirement when the town’s affordability metric falls under 10%.

Residents and potential homebuyers in Tiverton, particularly those seeking affordable housing options.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Trigger: The 50% affordable housing requirement activates only when Tiverton’s affordable housing stock dips below 10%.

Compliance period: Once triggered, the 50% requirement applies to qualifying new development until the town reaches full compliance with the state’s affordable housing requirements (Chapter 53, Title 45) — i.e., until the standard is met.

Implementation timing: Immediate upon passage; no interim rules or sunset provisions are specified beyond the general “until compliance” condition.

Potential implications

For developers: Increased upfront planning for affordable units in Tiverton when the trigger is met; potential adjustments to project economics, financing, and unit mix.

For Tiverton: A stronger instrument to boost affordable housing stock, potentially accelerating progress toward the state’s affordability goals.

For the housing market: Possible reduction in the supply of market-rate units during the trigger period if a fixed 50% of new units must be affordable.

Note: This summary reflects the bill’s text and stated explanation. It does not endorse or critique the policy and focuses on the bill’s substantive provisions and potential impact.