Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S0141

Introduced
1/31/25  

Caption

Allows an owner or owners of real property to execute a deed that names one or more beneficiaries who will obtain title to the property at the owner's death without the necessity of probate.

Impact

The bill's implementation is set to take effect for transfers occurring from January 1, 2026, forward. This introduces clarity to the legal framework surrounding property inheritance, as it allows for straightforward transitions of property while ensuring rights of joint owners and creditors are maintained. Importantly, the bill does not affect other means of property transfer; therefore, individuals can still utilize wills or trusts as applicable.

Summary

Bill S0141 introduces the Uniform Real Property Transfer on Death Act, which allows property owners to designate one or more beneficiaries to automatically inherit their property at death without the need for probate. This legislation aims to simplify the transfer of real estate, making the process more efficient for individuals seeking to pass on property to heirs. By allowing property ownership to be transferred via a deed made effective upon death, the act significantly reduces the administrative burden on families during an already challenging time.

Contention

Although the bill has progressive implications for estate management, there could be points of contention regarding its limits on class gifts, as such gifts may not be made through a Transfer on Death Deed. Some stakeholders may express concern about potential loopholes or the possible misuse of the law regarding designations of beneficiaries, especially in complex family dynamics. Moreover, the eventuality of disputes among beneficiaries could be exacerbated without clear communication or documentation of intentions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S2027

Allows an owner or owners of real property to execute a deed that names one or more beneficiaries who will obtain title to the property at the owner's death without the necessity of probate.

RI H8130

Allows an owner or owners of real property to execute a deed that names one or more beneficiaries who will obtain title to the property at the owner's death without the necessity of probate.

RI S0136

Uniform Real Property Transfer On Death Act

RI H7866

Requires associations to provide unit owners with thirty (30) days notice of any increase in the deductible application to the association’s policy ensuring that unit owners will have coverage relating to their responsibility.

RI S2646

Requires associations to provide unit owners with thirty (30) days notice of any increase in the deductible application to the association's policy ensuring that unit owners will have coverage relating to their responsibility.

RI S2412

Renames 46-19.1, allows existing docks on ponds with 1400 normal storage feet of water per DEM, allows property owner to commence work on property without pond owner authorization.

RI H7653

Renames 46-19.1, allows existing docks on ponds with 1400 normal storage feet of water per DEM, allows property owner to commence work on property without pond owner authorization.

RI H5705

Contested Pet Ownership

RI S2035

Allows a property owner with eligible net-metering systems with a master meter to allocate excess net metering credits to any meter on the property.

RI S2604

Includes immediate family members and related parties to be included in the definitions applicable to the chapter and require that information for nursing facility applicants for initial licensure or change of ownership.

Similar Bills

NJ A4539

Establishes "Uniform Real Property Transfer on Death Act."

NJ S3376

Establishes "Uniform Real Property Transfer on Death Act."

TX HB703

Relating to authorizing a revocable deed that transfers real property at the transferor's death.

TX SB462

Relating to authorizing a revocable deed that transfers real property at the transferor's death.

RI H8130

Allows an owner or owners of real property to execute a deed that names one or more beneficiaries who will obtain title to the property at the owner's death without the necessity of probate.

RI S2027

Allows an owner or owners of real property to execute a deed that names one or more beneficiaries who will obtain title to the property at the owner's death without the necessity of probate.

RI S0136

Uniform Real Property Transfer On Death Act

CT SB00117

An Act Concerning Adoption Of The Uniform Real Property Transfer On Death Act.