Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S0611

Introduced
3/6/25  

Caption

Clarifies roles and regulatory authority for the administration of the program involving the repurposing of vacant schools for housing.

Impact

If enacted, S0611 would specifically impact municipalities with less than ten percent of low- or moderate-income housing, prompting them to compile lists of vacant school buildings for feasibility assessments. This initiative intends to enhance housing availability in areas that are currently underserved, ultimately aiming to create more equitable living conditions statewide. Furthermore, the act will facilitate collaboration among multiple state departments and local agencies, ensuring comprehensive approaches to repurposing efforts.

Summary

S0611 is a legislative act in Rhode Island aimed at addressing the pressing issue of affordable housing by repurposing vacant school buildings. The bill establishes a program that is administered by the Secretary of Housing, which provides guidance and assistance in transforming abandoned or unused schools into affordable housing units. The bill outlines a systematic process for identifying suitable school buildings that can be converted for residential use and mandates annual assessments by the Department of Education regarding which buildings are no longer in operation.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding S0611 may arise from differing perspectives on local governance and resource allocation. Critics of similar initiatives typically raise concerns about the capacity to manage such transitions effectively while maintaining educational and community needs. Some stakeholders may argue that focusing on repurposing school buildings could detract from addressing broader housing policy issues or the maintenance of educational facilities. As debates continue, the level of support from various municipalities and community organizations will likely shape the program's effectiveness and implementation.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H6179

Requires the Rhode Island housing authority to update the count of affordable housing stock in the town of Tiverton two (2) times per year.

RI H6180

Ensures that minimum egress requirements for conventional subdivisions in Tiverton apply equally to comprehensive permit applications and cannot be waived, modified, or reduced for such applications.

RI H6184

Permits Tiverton to require two parking space for each studio, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom low- or moderate-income housing units upon the determination that limited or no local public transportation or off-street parking availability near these units.

RI H5692

Allows the operation of a home-based business, which meets criteria for home office IRS income tax deduction, without securing approval from the municipality with no storage of chemicals/park heavy equipment/not more than 10% of premises used for parking.

RI H5022

Increases the maximum state and municipal small purchase limits from $10,000 to $25,000 for construction projects and from $5,000 to $10,000 for all other state and municipal purchases.

RI H6182

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.

RI H6215

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.

RI H5371

Allows the towns of Burrillville and Glocester to publish notices in any newspaper located within their municipalities and would also allow publication in other designated digital or print platforms selected by their city or town councils.

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