Rhode Island House Bill H7656

Rhode Island 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/15/24
• Refer: 2/15/24

Caption

Removes the department of business regulation as the licensing authority for mobile home parks and place the authority with the secretary of housing.

Impact

The bill is poised to affect existing laws surrounding the operation of mobile home parks, particularly Chapter 31-44 of the General Laws regarding mobile and manufactured homes. By assigning the licensing authority to the Secretary of Housing, it centralizes responsibility and could lead to more consistent oversight and enforcement. This change might also encourage collaboration between housing services and local municipalities, ensuring that mobile home parks meet required land use regulations and safety standards.

Summary

House Bill H7656 proposes to transfer the licensing authority for mobile home parks from the Department of Business Regulation to the Secretary of Housing. This shift aims to enhance operational oversight and streamline regulations governing mobile and manufactured homes. By doing so, the bill underscores the importance of housing management under a more specialized authority dedicated to addressing housing specific issues, potentially leading to improved standards and compliance within mobile home communities.

Conclusion

H7656 is scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2025, allowing for an adjustment period, but commentary surrounding its implementation will likely continue as stakeholders assess the impact of this change on residents, mobile home park operators, and housing policies in the state.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for its intent to fortify housing regulations, it may face scrutiny concerning potential operational disruptions during the transition of licensing duties. Proponents argue that this transition brings expertise to governance, while opponents may raise concerns about whether the Secretary of Housing can effectively manage the increased responsibilities, particularly in ensuring that parks maintain adequate living conditions for residents. Questions may also arise regarding the implications of this shift on local governance, as municipalities will still play a critical role in compliance procedures.