Rhode Island House Bill H6182

Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/4/25
• Refer: 4/4/25

Caption

Requires any person who applies to rent or purchase a residence located in Town of Tiverton which qualifies as low and moderate income housing, shall require proof of Rhode Island residency or employment by a local, state or federal entity.

Impact

The implications of this legislation could be significant for housing accessibility in Tiverton, particularly for non-residents who may have been eligible under previous statutes. By requiring proof of residency or local employment, the bill aims to restrict access to affordable housing to those who are more likely to be integrated into the local community, potentially leading to a more stable population in terms of housing security. This could alleviate some strains on local housing resources; however, it may also create challenges for individuals who fall within the income eligibility but live outside of the specified jurisdictions.

Summary

House Bill H6182 is a legislative proposal introduced to amend existing laws concerning low and moderate-income housing specifically in the town of Tiverton, Rhode Island. The bill stipulates that any individual applying to either rent or purchase a residence deemed low- or moderate-income housing in Tiverton must provide proof of residency in Rhode Island or employment by a local, state, or federal entity. This introduction intends to prioritize housing assistance for local residents or individuals connected to the state through employment, thereby underscoring the importance of community-focused housing allocation.

Contention

The most notable point of contention surrounding Bill H6182 is the question of whether such restrictions are beneficial or detrimental to broader housing equity goals. Proponents argue that supporting local residents first is a necessary step toward ensuring that community members have access to housing opportunities, especially in the face of rising housing costs. Critics, however, may contend that the restrictions could further limit options for certain demographics, particularly those seeking affordable housing in a tight market, potentially exacerbating existing disparities in housing availability.