Allows municipalities without public transportation extending to urban service boundaries to reduce the low- or moderate-income housing requirements from 10% to 6%.
The bill's passage could significantly impact housing policies within Rhode Island's municipalities. By lowering the housing requirement, municipalities may find it more feasible to develop low and moderate income housing, particularly in areas where public transportation options are limited. However, this change may also lead to fewer incentives for municipalities to improve or develop public transport services.
Bill S2016, introduced in the Rhode Island General Assembly, seeks to amend the existing laws governing low and moderate income housing. The bill allows municipalities that lack adequate public transportation extending to urban service boundaries to reduce their required percentage of low and moderate income housing from 10% to 6%. This legislative change is intended to accommodate communities that are not serviced by public transportation, making it easier for them to comply with housing regulations.
While proponents of the bill argue that it takes into account the realities of communities without adequate public transportation, critics may raise concerns that it could lead to reduced opportunities for affordable housing, particularly in urban areas where demand for such housing is high. There may be apprehension that this legislative change might perpetuate economic disparities by limiting access to affordable housing in areas that are already underserved.
If enacted, this bill would take effect immediately, allowing municipalities to adjust their housing policies without delay. The decision to issue the reduced percentage would be made by an approved monitoring agent, ensuring some level of oversight in the implementation process.