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SB 798

AN ACT RELATING TO TOWNS AND CITIES -- MULTIFAMILY HOUSING ACT

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Alana DiMario and 2 co-sponsors

Rhode Island bill streamlines multifamily housing development to increase apartment construction and address housing affordability across cities and towns.

05/08/2025 Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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Bill Summary · SB 798

Legislative bill overview

SB 798 is Rhode Island legislation aimed at facilitating multifamily housing development in towns and cities. The bill appears designed to address housing supply and affordability by streamlining or reforming local zoning and development regulations that currently restrict or limit apartment buildings and multi-unit residential construction.

Why is this important

Rhode Island faces significant housing affordability challenges and supply shortages, making this legislation relevant to residents seeking rental and ownership options. Multifamily housing policy directly affects municipal tax bases, community density patterns, and whether young professionals and families can afford to live in the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Local control vs. state mandates: Municipalities may resist state-imposed requirements that limit their zoning authority or override local land-use decisions
  • Neighborhood character concerns: Residents in established single-family neighborhoods may oppose density increases and changes to community character
  • Infrastructure capacity: Towns may argue existing water, sewer, and transportation systems cannot support increased multifamily development without costly upgrades

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

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