Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H5100

Introduced
1/22/25  
Refer
1/22/25  
Report Pass
2/27/25  
Engrossed
3/4/25  

Caption

Authorizes municipalities to make an emergency declaration under limited circumstances to allow for the construction and use of SAVE Units on a temporary basis which have specialized requirements and exemptions from the state fire and building codes.

Impact

The bill modifies existing state laws related to building codes and zoning ordinances, allowing for expedited housing solutions during declared emergencies. Municipalities can bypass typical zoning procedures and building approvals for SAVE Units, leading to faster deployment of emergency housing solutions. This legislative move aims to address immediate needs for shelter while also maintaining minimal safety standards for the units themselves. By doing so, it empowers local authorities to act swiftly in the face of crises, potentially reducing the impact of housing shortages in emergency situations.

Summary

House Bill 5100 seeks to provide municipalities in Rhode Island the ability to declare emergencies to permit the temporary construction and use of 'SAVE Units,' which are specially designed residential units intended to offer transitional safety and privacy for individuals experiencing homelessness. The bill outlines specific requirements and exemptions from state building and fire codes for these units, emphasizing their role in aftermath scenarios such as natural disasters or severe weather conditions.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 5100 appears to be generally supportive among advocates for homeless individuals and organizations looking to assist in emergency management. Proponents argue that the bill is a timely response to an increasing need for transitional housing solutions. However, there may also be concerns regarding compliance with safety standards, as critics might argue that easing regulations could lead to compromised safety for occupants of these units. The balance between urgency and adherence to building codes is a point of discussion among stakeholders.

Contention

While the bill is framed as a necessary tool for emergency management, it faces potential contention regarding its implementation. There are concerns that the exemptions from building codes, such as fire safety standards, may pose risks if not carefully monitored. Additionally, the criteria for declaring an emergency and the duration of these declarations may also prompt discussions about local governance and the oversight of such measures. The necessity of ensuring that SAVE Units meet basic living standards while addressing urgent housing needs remains a delicate issue.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0166

The Green Buildings Act

RI H5425

The Green Buildings Act

RI S2952

Establishes a program for the energy benchmarking of large buildings in Rhode Island and a standard for their energy performance.

RI S2761

Establishes building safety code standards for multi-dwelling buildings and requires the development of recommendations for resolving any conflicts between fire safety codes and the building codes.

RI H7893

Establishes building safety code standards for multi-dwelling buildings and requires the development of recommendations for resolving any conflicts between fire safety codes and the building codes.

RI S2829

Defines 3 classes of electric bicycles, authorizes the DEM to determine allowable uses of electric bicycles at properties under the department's jurisdiction, allows Class 1 electric bicycles to legally access state bicycle trails or paths.

RI H7713

Defines 3 classes of electric bicycles, authorizes the DEM to determine allowable uses of electric bicycles at properties under the department's jurisdiction, allows Class 1 electric bicycles to legally access state bicycle trails or paths.

RI H7617

JOINT RESOLUTION RESPECTFULLY REQUESTING THE EXECUTIVE CLIMATE CHANGE COORDINATING COUNCIL (EC4) TO PREPARE A REPORT ON BENCHMARKING AND BUILDING PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

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 H7980

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.

Similar Bills

RI H7062

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

RI S2998

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

RI S2630

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

RI H6082

Zoning Ordinances

RI H6090

Zoning Ordinances

RI S1035

Zoning Ordinances

RI S2623

Zoning Ordinances

RI S1006

Zoning Ordinances