Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H5675

Introduced
2/26/25  

Caption

Prohibits a landlord from inquiring about the immigration status of a tenant subject to any federal laws or regulations, but may request financial information.

Impact

If passed, H5675 would significantly affect the way residential rental agreements operate in the state. It is expected to provide greater security for immigrant tenants, promoting housing stability and preventing discrimination. Landlords will need to adjust their verification processes accordingly, focusing on financial qualifications rather than immigration-related inquiries. This change aligns housing practices with broader anti-discrimination principles and efforts to create inclusive communities.

Summary

House Bill 5675 proposes an amendment to the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, specifically prohibiting landlords from inquiring about the immigration status of tenants or prospective tenants. This bill aims to protect certain demographic groups from discrimination in the housing market based on their immigration status, ensuring they are not unjustly denied housing opportunities. The bill stipulates that landlords are not to compel any disclosures regarding citizenship or immigration status while still allowing them to verify the financial qualifications of prospective tenants within legal parameters.

Contention

The primary points of contention surrounding H5675 relate to the balance between enforcing federal immigration laws and protecting tenant rights at the state level. Supporters advocate that the bill is crucial for safeguarding vulnerable populations, while opponents express concerns that it could impede landlords' ability to ensure compliance with federal regulations. Additionally, there may be debates on whether this legislation could lead to unforeseen consequences in the housing market, particularly concerning tenant screening processes.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H7959

Prohibits a landlord from inquiring about the immigration status of a tenant subject to any federal laws or regulations, but may request financial information.

RI H7963

Prohibits a landlord from inquiring about the immigration status of a tenant subject to any federal laws or regulations, but may request financial information or proof of identity.

RI S2188

Prohibits a landlord from inquiring about the immigration status of a tenant subject to any federal laws or regulations, but may request financial information or proof of identity.

RI H5689

Residential Landlord And Tenant Act--immigration Status

RI S0390

Residential Landlord And Tenant Act--immigration Status

RI H7174

Prohibits landlords from inquiring about an applicant's prior incarceration and from discriminating against those who have been released from prison.

RI S2643

Requires landlords to list all mandatory fees when advertising any residential property for rent as well as on the first page of any lease. Prohibits a landlord from charging a convenience fee when the tenant pays rent.

RI S0911

Residential Landlord And Tenant

RI H6062

Residential Landlord And Tenant Act

RI H7305

Prohibits discrimination based on housing status, define "assistance animal", make it unlawful to issue discriminatory notices or statements relating to the sale, rental or leasing of housing and to delete an unconstitutional provision.

Similar Bills

CA AB299

Hiring of real property: immigration or citizenship status.

MI SB0372

Housing: landlord and tenants; reuse of certain tenant screening reports; allow. Amends title & sec. 1 of 1972 PA 348 (MCL 554.601) & adds secs. 1e, 1f, 1g & 1h.

MI SB0883

Housing: landlord and tenants; reuse of certain tenant screening reports; allow. Amends title & sec. 1 of 1972 PA 348 (MCL 554.601) & adds secs. 1c, 1d, 1e & 1f.

MI HB5605

Housing: landlord and tenants; acceptance of reusable screening report; provide for. Amends title & sec. 1 of 1972 PA 348 (MCL 554.601) & adds secs. 1c, 1d, 1e & 1f.

CO HB1099

Portable Screening Report For Residential Leases

MD HB1077

Landlord and Tenant - Residential Leases - Prospective Tenant Criminal History Records Check (Maryland Fair Chance Housing Act)

OR HB3054

Relating to residential tenancies for a space in a facility; and declaring an emergency.

NJ S2841

Prohibits photo identification requirement for residential rental application.