Creates the division of civil representation within the department of housing and require civil representation by a Designated Legal Organization to provide legal representation to all tenants who qualify in eviction proceedings.
Impact
By mandating legal representation at eviction proceedings, the bill is expected to significantly alter the landscape of housing law in Rhode Island. It will require that all residential leases notify tenants of their right to legal representation, and any waiver of this right in leasing agreements will be deemed void. This initiative not only aims to empower tenants but also anticipates reducing the burden on public services resulting from housing instability and homelessness, which can incur substantial government costs in shelters and welfare programs.
Summary
Senate Bill 2923, also known as the Residential Tenant's Right to Legal Representation Act, aims to enhance housing stability for low- to moderate-income individuals facing eviction. Recognizing the disproportionate impact eviction proceedings have on these populations, the bill seeks to provide a formal right to legal representation in such proceedings, emphasizing that the availability of legal support can preserve access to housing and ensure compliance with existing laws. The act creates the Division of Civil Representation within the Department of Housing to oversee and implement these legal representation services.
Contention
Debate around S2923 has surfaced several points of contention. Supporters argue that providing legal representation is essential for protecting the rights of vulnerable tenants and ensuring they receive fair treatment in judicial proceedings. On the other hand, opponents may express concerns regarding the implications for landlords and the potential for an increase in legal disputes as tenants gain access to professional legal aid. Additionally, questions around the financing of the program and the operational capabilities of the Division of Civil Representation may arise as stakeholders consider the practical execution of these protections.
House Resolution Adopting The Rules Of The House Of Representatives For The Years 2023 And 2024 (this Resolution Would Adopt The Rules Of The House Of Representatives For The Years 2023 And 2024.)
House Resolution Thanking Representative Anastasia P. Williams For Her Thirty Years Of Devoted And Distinguished Service In The Rhode Island House Of Representatives
House Resolution Amending The Rules Of The House Of Representatives For The Years 2021 And 2022 (require The House Clerk To Publish Certain Information Regarding Decisions Made By The Speaker And Appeals By Members To The Decisions.)
House Resolution Amending The Rules Of The House Of Representatives For The Years 2021 And 2022 (this Resolution Would Require The Clerk Of The House To Prepare And Publish In The House Journal An Index Of All Rulings Made By The Speaker.)
House Resolution Amending The Rules Of The House Of Representatives For The Years 2021-2022 (requires That All Legislative Grants Allocated To The Senate Be Distributed In Accordance With The Rules Of The Senate And That All Legislative Grants Allocated To The House Of Representatives Be Divided Equally Among The 75 Legislative Districts.)
Creates the division of civil representation within the department of housing and require civil representation by a Designated Legal Organization to provide legal representation to all tenants who qualify in eviction proceedings.
Creates the division of civil representation within the department of housing and require civil representation by a Designated Legal Organization to provide legal representation to all tenants who qualify in eviction proceedings.
Modifies the summons for eviction for reasons other than nonpayment of rent with the district court, to add a certificate of service section, and provides the option to post the summons/complaint conspicuously on door of the defendant/tenant's dwelling.
Modifies the summons for eviction for reasons other than nonpayment of rent with the district court, to add a certificate of service section, and provides the option to post the summons/complaint conspicuously on door of the defendant/tenant's dwelling.