Rhode Island House Bill H6215

Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/9/25
• Refer: 4/9/25

Caption

Requires the town of Tiverton to require a minimum number of affordable housing units if there is less than ten percent (10%) of affordable housing in the town.

Impact

The implications of H6215, if enacted, are significant for local housing policies in Tiverton. By enforcing a minimum requirement for affordable housing units in new developments, the bill seeks to alleviate the existing deficit of affordable options in the community. This is particularly critical given the rising costs of housing across many regions. However, the requirement might lead to concerns regarding the feasibility for developers who may argue that such stipulations could hinder market-driven solutions and increase the overall costs of housing projects.

Summary

House Bill 6215 aims to address the shortage of affordable housing in the town of Tiverton by mandating that new construction projects include a minimum proportion of affordable housing units. Specifically, the bill stipulates that if the proportion of affordable housing in Tiverton falls below ten percent (10%), any developer must ensure that at least fifty percent (50%) of the units in any new residential project be designated as affordable housing. This legislative move is targeted toward promoting housing equity and ensuring that low and moderate-income families have access to suitable living conditions.

Contention

As with many housing-related bills, there are potential points of contention surrounding H6215. Proponents of the bill advocate for the necessity of affordable housing requirements, emphasizing the urgent need for accessibility for low-income families. Conversely, opponents might contend that imposing strict mandates on developers could deter business investments and lead to a decrease in overall construction activity, thereby exacerbating the housing crunch rather than alleviating it. These opposing views highlight the tension between regulatory measures aimed at ensuring housing affordability and the practical economic implications for development in the area.