Establishes the Rhode Island Inclusive Home Design Act as a new article in the state building code.
The enactment of this bill would result in changes to existing state building regulations, increasing accessibility standards in newly constructed or rehabilitated homes that utilize federal, state, or local financial aid. Stakeholders in the housing industry, including developers and local governments, would need to adapt their plans to comply with these new inclusive design requirements, significantly influencing how housing projects are conceived and executed in Rhode Island.
House Bill 7377, also known as the Rhode Island Inclusive Home Design Act, aims to amend the state's building code by introducing new design requirements for certain residential housing units. Specifically, it mandates that any new construction or significant rehabilitation of dwelling units receiving any form of government financial assistance must ensure that at least one level of the unit meets the standards for 'Type C (Visitable) Units' as defined by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). This is intended to enhance accessibility and visitation for individuals with disabilities or mobility challenges.
While the bill's proponents advocate for improved accessibility, concerns have been raised regarding its potential impact on construction costs and timelines. Developers may argue that the mandated compliance with ANSI standards could result in increased expenses, leading to higher housing prices. Moreover, the bill includes provisions allowing waivers for undue burdens, but opponents might still see this as creating unnecessary regulatory hurdles in an already challenging housing market. Discussions in legislative circles suggest a divide between the imperatives of inclusivity and the pragmatic challenges faced by the housing sector.