Rhode Island House Bill H7320

Rhode Island 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/2/22
• Refer: 2/2/22
• Report Pass: 4/28/22
• Passed: 5/12/22

Caption

House Resolution Creating A Special Legislative Commission To Study And Review The Cost And Status Of The State Of Rhode Island Owned, Vacant, And Abandoned Properties And Provide Recommendations For Methods To Mitigate The Associated Expenses (creates A 13 Member Commission To Study And Provide Recommendations To Mitigate The Associated Costs For The State's Vacant And Abandoned Properties, And Would Report Back By May 1, 2023, And Expire On June 30, 2023.)

Impact

The creation of this commission signals a proactive approach by state lawmakers to address the issues tied to vacant properties. The commission's goal is to offer actionable recommendations to mitigate associated expenses, such as insurance costs and public safety risks. By addressing these properties, the state aims to work towards revitalizing neighborhoods, enhancing public safety, and ultimately reducing state expenditures related to these unproductive assets.

Summary

House Bill H7320 establishes a Special Legislative Commission tasked with studying the cost and status of vacant and abandoned properties owned by the State of Rhode Island. The bill arose from the significant impacts of the mortgage foreclosure crisis, which left many neighborhoods with numerous vacant structures that not only detract from community aesthetics but also impose growing economic burdens on the state. The commission will comprise thirteen members and is expected to report its findings and recommendations by May 1, 2023, with a sunset clause expiring June 30, 2023.

Sentiment

Overall sentiment towards H7320 has been positive among legislators who recognize the urgent need to tackle the vacant property crisis as a means of fostering neighborhood revitalization. Lawmakers see the commission as a vehicle for engaging multiple stakeholders, including various state representatives and community members, which may further build support for future initiatives aimed at improving property management and utilization in Rhode Island.

Contention

While there appears to be a general agreement on the necessity of addressing vacant and abandoned properties, there may be concerns regarding what measures the commission might recommend, particularly in terms of funding and community engagement. Critics could argue about the potential costs involved in implementing the recommendations made, as well as how those measures might impact local economies. The discussions around the expected outcomes and the commission's effectiveness could particularly highlight differing priorities among stakeholders.