Rhode Island 2024 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7980

Introduced
3/5/24  
Refer
3/5/24  
Report Pass
4/9/24  
Engrossed
4/11/24  
Refer
4/16/24  
Report Pass
6/11/24  
Engrossed
6/14/24  
Engrossed
6/14/24  

Caption

Makes several amendments relative to manufactured homes, including adding a definition for manufactured home and a provision allowing for certain manufactured homes to be considered a single-family home if on a lot zone for such use.

Impact

The bill is expected to significantly impact state housing laws by reducing barriers for manufactured homes to be similarly treated as traditional single-family homes. More specifically, it creates a pathway for municipalities to allow manufactured homes within residential zoning districts, promoting diversity in housing options. This reform aligns with a broader effort to address Rhode Island's affordable housing crisis by expanding available housing types suitable for various demographic needs.

Summary

House Bill H7980 seeks to amend various laws related to manufactured homes, enhancing their classification and treatment under zoning regulations in Rhode Island. A notable change is the definition and recognition of certain manufactured homes as single-family residences if located on appropriately zoned lots. This aims to provide a clearer framework for local municipalities in managing and integrating manufactured homes within their housing landscape, allowing for better accommodation of such dwellings.

Sentiment

General sentiment around H7980 appears to be supportive, particularly among housing advocates who recognize the bill's potential to increase affordable housing stock. Legislators discussing the bill have reflected a positive outlook on the need to diversify housing types while addressing the logistical and social challenges associated with manufactured homes. However, there are concerns regarding local government control over zoning, as the changes could impose state-level directives on municipal regulations.

Contention

A point of contention surrounding this bill includes the delicate balance between state zoning mandates and local governance. Some critics argue that easing restrictions on manufactured homes could lead to over-concentration in certain areas, potentially undermining community planning efforts. Moreover, stakeholders express the need to ensure that any such integration respects existing community aesthetics and infrastructure capabilities, thus advocating for a collaborative approach between state and local authorities in housing development.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5752

Mobile And Manufactured Homes

RI S0807

Dealers', Manufacturers', And Rental Licenses

RI S1035

Zoning Ordinances

RI H6090

Zoning Ordinances

RI H5751

Zoning Ordnances

RI S0801

Zoning Ordnances

RI S1006

Zoning Ordinances

RI H6082

Zoning Ordinances

RI S1036

Zoning Ordinances

RI S1061

Zoning Ordinances

Similar Bills

RI S2989

Makes several amendments relative to manufactured homes, including adding a definition for manufactured home and a provision allowing for certain manufactured homes to be considered a single-family home if on a lot zone for such use.

RI S0504

Requires cities and towns to permit attached single-family dwellings in any residential zoning districts and each such dwelling would be entitled to its own parcel thorough subdivision regardless lot size or base zone standards.

RI H5797

Adds a definition for "co-living housing" to the zoning ordinance provisions of the general laws and would include such housing as a special provision to be included in a zoning ordinance.

RI S1085

Adds a definition for "co-living housing" to the zoning ordinance provisions of the general laws and would include such housing as a special provision to be included in a zoning ordinance.

RI S2998

Amends several sections of law relating to zoning ordinances to provide uniform zoning standards for accessory dwelling units.

RI H7062

Amends several sections of law relating to zoning ordinances to provide uniform zoning standards for accessory dwelling units.

RI S1035

Zoning Ordinances

RI H6090

Zoning Ordinances