Rhode Island House Bill H6396

Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/6/25
• Refer: 6/6/25
• Report Pass: 6/16/25
• Engrossed: 6/18/25
• Enrolled: 6/20/25
• Passed: 6/26/25

Caption

Authorizes the town of Smithfield to provide a tax credit for any person with paraplegia and who by reason of the paraplegic disability requires specially adapted housing.

Impact

If passed, HB 6396 would empower the town council of Smithfield to establish an ordinance that provides financial relief through tax credits to qualifying residents. This legislative change would not only assist those who are paraplegic but would also reflect a broader commitment by the state to support the needs of disabled citizens, ensuring they have access to housing that accommodates their needs. The bill is designed to take effect upon passage, indicating an immediate impact for eligible residents once it becomes law.

Summary

House Bill 6396 seeks to provide a tax credit to individuals with paraplegia who require specially adapted housing in the town of Smithfield. This bill represents an initiative to ease the financial burden on those with disabilities by allowing local authorities to grant tax benefits that directly support their living situations. Specifically, the bill amends Chapter 44-3 of the General Laws related to property subject to taxation, making provisions for such exemptions at the local government level.

Contention

The bill, while seemingly straightforward in its intent, could potentially raise discussions around budgetary implications for the town, especially concerning property tax revenues. There may also be considerations around the criteria for eligibility and how such exemptions are administered. Legislators and stakeholders may debate the fairness and sustainability of introducing such tax credits; whether it solely benefits a specific group or if it also serves a larger goal of inclusivity and support for individuals with disabilities.