Rhode Island House Bill H5752

Rhode Island 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/21/23
• Refer: 2/21/23

Caption

Mobile And Manufactured Homes

Impact

The legislative changes proposed in HB 5752 are set to impact the operation of mobile home parks significantly. By placing the licensing responsibility under the Secretary of Housing, the bill is intended to enhance oversight and address issues related to sewage disposal and water supply more effectively. The requirement for annual renewals and compliance certifications underscores the emphasis on maintaining standards that protect both residents and the environment. This movement towards a centralized authority could lead to more consistent application of regulations across the state.

Summary

House Bill 5752 addresses the regulation of mobile and manufactured homes in Rhode Island by amending existing laws concerning the licensing of mobile and manufactured home parks. Specifically, the bill transfers the licensing authority from the Department of Business Regulation to the Secretary of Housing. This transition aims to streamline the licensing process and ensure that housing regulations are more centralized under housing policy oversight. The bill outlines the requirements for obtaining and renewing licenses for mobile and manufactured home parks, including the necessary certifications from local municipalities and state agencies.

Contention

While the bill aims to improve the management and regulation of mobile home parks, it may also raise concerns regarding local autonomy. Some stakeholders may argue that shifting the licensing process to a state-level authority could undermine local governance and oversight inherent to municipalities. Discussions surrounding this bill are likely to focus on the balance between centralized regulation for consistency and the local control needed to address community-specific issues in housing and infrastructure. As the effective date of the bill is set for January 1, 2025, there is time for further debate and adjustments based on stakeholder feedback.