Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S0512

Introduced
2/26/25  

Caption

Creates the division of civil representation within the department of housing and require civil representation by a Designated Legal Organization to provide legal representation to all tenants who qualify in eviction proceedings.

Impact

The bill establishes the Division of Civil Representation within the Department of Housing, which will be responsible for delivering legal representation and educational outreach services to eligible individuals. This division will administer programs that ensure all tenants at risk of eviction can access affordable legal services. Furthermore, it would facilitate community education regarding tenants' rights, helping to empower individuals facing eviction while addressing the need for systemic change in housing law.

Summary

Bill S0512 introduces the Residential Tenant's Right to Legal Representation Act, intended to ensure that individuals facing eviction are granted legal representation. This legislation recognizes the disproportionate impact eviction proceedings have on low- to moderate-income individuals, advocating for their fundamental right to adequate housing. By providing a legal defense for those at risk, the bill aims to mitigate the adverse effects of housing instability, such as homelessness, health issues, and loss of family integrity.

Contention

One point of contention surrounding the bill pertains to the arguments regarding the balance between tenant protection and landlords' rights. While supporters assert that legal representation is essential for protecting vulnerable tenants, critics may argue that the legislation could complicate eviction processes for landlords and impose additional financial burdens on rental businesses. The provision that any attempt to waive the right to legal representation in lease agreements is deemed void might evoke concerns from landlords about their legal recourses in eviction scenarios.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H7957

Creates the division of civil representation within the department of housing and require civil representation by a Designated Legal Organization to provide legal representation to all tenants who qualify in eviction proceedings.

RI S2923

Creates the division of civil representation within the department of housing and require civil representation by a Designated Legal Organization to provide legal representation to all tenants who qualify in eviction proceedings.

RI H7989

Authorizes cities and towns to establish a housing authority to adopt tenant protection measures, including rent control, annual rent increase ordinances and no-fault evictions, subject to certain exemptions.

RI H6129

Public Defender

RI H7655

Grants a right of first offer to qualified nonprofits for the purchase of certain multi-family residential properties at market prices, within a reasonable period of time to promote the creation and preservation of affordable rental housing.

RI S2631

Grants a right of first offer to qualified nonprofits for the purchase of certain multi-family residential properties at market prices, within a reasonable period of time to promote the creation and preservation of affordable rental housing.

RI H7646

Amends definition of "authorized representative" in the confidentiality of health-care communications/information act provides that an authorized representative may include any heir-at-law when the patient is deceased/the personal representative is absent

RI S3044

Amends definition of "authorized representative" in the confidentiality of health-care communications/information act provides that an authorized representative may include any heir-at-law when the patient is deceased/the personal representative is absent

RI H5051

House Resolution Adopting The Rules Of The House Of Representatives For The Years 2023 And 2024 (this Resolution Would Adopt The Rules Of The House Of Representatives For The Years 2023 And 2024.)

RI S2534

Requires that the appointment of public members to the coastal resources management council to include an active, licensed fisher, a representative from Save the Bay and from an organization representing developers.

Similar Bills

RI H6129

Public Defender

RI S2923

Creates the division of civil representation within the department of housing and require civil representation by a Designated Legal Organization to provide legal representation to all tenants who qualify in eviction proceedings.

RI H7957

Creates the division of civil representation within the department of housing and require civil representation by a Designated Legal Organization to provide legal representation to all tenants who qualify in eviction proceedings.

RI H5916

Increases the notification time about rent increases and termination of tenancy for month-to-month tenants.

RI S0719

Increases the notification time about rent increases and termination of tenancy for month-to-month tenants.

RI H5181

Modifies the summons for eviction for reasons other than nonpayment of rent with the district court, to add a certificate of service section, and provides the option to post the summons/complaint conspicuously on door of the defendant/tenant's dwelling.

RI H8084

Modifies the summons for eviction for reasons other than nonpayment of rent with the district court, to add a certificate of service section, and provides the option to post the summons/complaint conspicuously on door of the defendant/tenant's dwelling.

RI H5514

Residential Landlord And Tenant Act