Rhode Island House Bill H5959

Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/28/25
• Refer: 2/28/25

Caption

Required public auctions by any city or town of real estate or an interest therein to only be done in person and not by electronic or remote procedures unless authorized by court order.

Impact

The passage of H5959 will directly impact current practices regarding public auctions for properties within local jurisdictions in Rhode Island. By requiring in-person auctions, the bill seeks to safeguard against potential abuses that could arise from electronic auctioning, such as insufficient public notice or lack of competitive bidding opportunities. Furthermore, the necessity for court approval for remote auctions inserts an additional legal layer that may deter any unauthorized attempts to conduct auctions remotely. This change is expected to create a more community-engaged auction process, fostering accountability and transparency in government operations.

Summary

House Bill H5959 proposes significant changes to the public auction process for real estate in Rhode Island. The primary provision of this bill mandates that public auctions conducted by any city or town regarding real estate or interests therein must take place in person, rather than through electronic or remote methods. This requirement aims to enhance public scrutiny and transparency in the auction process, ensuring that citizens can participate in and observe the proceedings directly. The legislation clearly outlines that remote auctions are only permissible if explicitly authorized by a court order, following a hearing that determines the impracticality of an in-person auction.

Contention

While this bill may improve transparency, it is also likely to encounter opposition from proponents of digital modernization. Critics may argue that the move to strictly enforce in-person auctions could hinder efficiency, especially in scenarios where gathering in person may not be feasible due to public health concerns or logistical challenges. Advocates for technological integration in government processes might contend that prohibiting electronic auctions limits access for some potential bidders who may find it more convenient to participate remotely. As such, debates around HB5959 are expected to balance the need for transparency with the push for innovation and accessibility.