Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S3073

Introduced
3/13/26  
Refer
3/13/26  
Report Pass
4/28/26  
Refer
5/8/26  

Caption

RELATING TO PROPERTY -- MORTGAGES OF REAL PROPERTY

Impact

The bill introduces significant changes to how lenders can enforce prepayment penalties, which has implications for both borrowers and lending institutions within Rhode Island. By imposing stricter regulations on prepayment penalties, S3073 intends to protect consumers from potentially high costs associated with early mortgage repayments. The new provisions will limit lenders' ability to impose certain penalties, thereby making it more equitable for consumers wishing to refinance or pay off their loans ahead of schedule.

Summary

Senate Bill S3073 aims to amend existing laws regarding mortgage prepayment penalties specifically for loans secured by mortgages on owner-occupied properties that consist of one to four dwelling units. The bill stipulates that lenders must allow full mortgage payment without penalty after one year, with a cap on penalties for prepayments made within the first year. This legislative change aims to provide clearer and more consumer-friendly options for homeowners looking to pay off their mortgages sooner.

Contention

While proponents of the bill argue that it enhances consumer protections, opponents may raise concerns about the potential impact on lending practices. Critics might argue that limiting prepayment penalties can lead to increased costs for lenders, which could, in turn, result in higher interest rates or reduced availability of loans. Additionally, the requirement for specific disclosures about prepayment penalties relates to larger discussions about transparency in the mortgage lending process and the balance of power between lenders and borrowers.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5752

Imposes a property tax on non-owner occupied residential properties assessed worth at one million dollars ($1,000,000) and less than two million dollars ($2,000,000) and a higher tax on properties assessed at two million dollars ($2,000,000) or more.

RI S0936

Prohibits an individual who is licensed as both a Rhode Island real estate agent and mortgage loan originator to be compensated for both the sale of the property and the origination or referral of the loan in securing the property.

RI H5811

Prohibits an individual who is licensed as both a Rhode Island real estate agent and mortgage loan originator to be compensated for both the sale of the property and the origination or referral of the loan in securing the property.

RI H6011

Removes state-owned property from property exempt from local property taxes.

RI S0437

Imposes a non-owner occupied property tax on residential properties assessed in excess of eight hundred thousand dollars ($800,000) at variable rates dependent on values assessed by local tax assessors.

RI H6189

Imposes a non-owner occupied property tax on residential properties assessed in excess of eight hundred thousand dollars ($800,000) at variable rates dependent on values assessed by local tax assessors.

RI S1043

Adds the property of the Pokanoket Management Group, Trustee of the Pokanoket Tribe Land Trust, to the list of property designated for appropriations in lieu of municipal property tax, would concurrently exempt such property from municipal property tax.

RI H6291

Adds the property of the Pokanoket Management Group, Trustee of the Pokanoket Tribe Land Trust, to the list of property designated for appropriations in lieu of municipal property tax, would concurrently exempt such property from municipal property tax.

RI S0028

Exempts from property taxation, the real and tangible personal property of the Providence Preservation Society.

RI H5369

Exempts from property taxation, the real and tangible personal property of the Providence Preservation Society.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.