RELATING TO TOWNS AND CITIES -- RESTORING OPTIONS IN OCCUPANCY, MODELS (ROOM) ACT
Impact
The bill stipulates that municipalities must allow co-living properties as a permitted use across various residential and commercial zones. It preempts local ordinances that impose stricter regulations than those outlined in the bill, thus streamlining the process for establishing co-living arrangements. Notably, it prevents municipalities from restricting occupancy based on income, familial status, or other discriminatory factors, thereby enhancing tenant rights and access to housing opportunities. This change could significantly increase the availability of lower-cost housing options in desirable urban areas, supporting those with lower income levels.
Summary
House Bill H8036, titled the Restoring Options in Occupancy Models (ROOM) Act, aims to address the housing availability and affordability crisis in Rhode Island. The bill seeks to restore co-living arrangements and single-room occupancy (SRO) setups, which have been historically limited by restrictive zoning laws and building regulations. By allowing municipalities to permit these housing models, the bill intends to expand affordable living options for residents, especially those looking to mitigate housing costs or seeking communal living environments that foster social connections.
Contention
Despite its objectives, H8036 has sparked debate regarding local control over housing regulations. Supporters argue that it provides much-needed options for affordable housing and addresses the crisis effectively through modern solutions like co-living arrangements. Critics, however, express concerns about potential impacts on neighborhood dynamics, suggesting that such a rapid increase in co-living arrangements could lead to challenges in maintaining community standards and managing communal living situations. Proponents of local governance assert that cities and towns should retain the authority to set specific regulations tailored to their unique socio-economic landscapes.
Requires cities and towns to permit attached single-family dwellings in any residential zoning districts and each such dwelling would be entitled to its own parcel thorough subdivision regardless lot size or base zone standards.
Exempts certain cities and towns whose communities exceed the low and moderate income housing threshold from the tax of the previous year's gross scheduled rental income.
Exempts certain cities and towns whose communities exceed the low and moderate income housing threshold from the tax of the previous year's gross scheduled rental income.
Adds a definition for "co-living housing" to the zoning ordinance provisions of the general laws and would include such housing as a special provision to be included in a zoning ordinance.
Adds a definition for "co-living housing" to the zoning ordinance provisions of the general laws and would include such housing as a special provision to be included in a zoning ordinance.
Caps damages at $100,000 in tort actions against Rhode Island, cities, towns, or fire districts, except for willful misconduct or extreme recklessness. It also exempts them from ยง 9-21-10.