Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7338

Introduced
1/28/26  

Caption

Prevents condominium associations and home owner associations from prohibiting the installation of EV charging stations to be installed at the owner's expenses.

Impact

The introduction of HB 7338 could significantly impact state laws related to the governance of condominium and homeowner associations. Traditionally, such associations have exercised considerable control over modifications to properties within their jurisdiction, often restricting changes that could affect the community's aesthetic or functionality. By mandating that these groups cannot outright prohibit EV charging stations, the bill promotes a transition to greener technologies and addresses the growing demand for EV infrastructure as more residents adopt electric vehicles.

Summary

House Bill 7338 proposes an amendment to the Rhode Island Nonprofit Corporation Act, specifically addressing homeowner and condominium associations. The bill aims to prevent these associations from prohibiting the installation of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at the expense of individual owners. This legislation seeks to facilitate the adoption of electric vehicles by ensuring that residents have the right to install charging infrastructure within their properties, even in shared living environments like condominiums or community associations.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding this bill is the balance between individual rights and community regulations. Proponents of the bill argue that it empowers residents to embrace sustainable practices and reduces barriers to electric vehicle adoption. Conversely, opponents may raise concerns about potential misuse, such as inappropriate installations that could affect shared amenities or safety. There may also be discussions on what constitutes a 'reasonable restriction,' as associations could still impose guidelines to ensure that installations comply with safety and aesthetic standards.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5587

References both the declaration and bylaws of a condominium association as possible sources of association insurance regulation for the condominiums and require additional insurance to protect unit owners, when necessary.

RI H5585

Requires associations to provide unit owners within thirty (30) days notice of any increase in the deductible application to the association’s policy.

RI S0507

Requires associations to provide unit owners within thirty (30) days notice of any increase in the deductible application to the association’s policy.

RI H5591

Requires commercial property owners to install vehicle barriers at their retail establishment locations when new construction are being done and permits insurers to consider the installation to provide a discount on the owner's insurance policy.

RI H5826

Creates a process for condominium associations to give notice to and obtain approval from unit mortgage holders for certain association actions.

RI S0014

Requires commercial property owners to install vehicle barriers at their retail establishment locations when new construction are being done and permits insurers to consider the installation to provide a discount on the owner's insurance policy.

RI H5330

Provides that amendments to §§ 34-36.1-1.03 and 34-36.1-3.08 are applicable to condominiums created before July 1, 1982, provides a definition for the term “special assessment” and allows unit owners to participate in association meetings remotely.

RI H5611

Requires the installation of universal changing stations in all newly constructed, reconstructed, or remodeled public buildings and places of public accommodation.

RI H5825

Restricts increases in monthly common expenses and limit special assessments to cover unforeseen costs not included in condo association’s approved annual budget for common expenses in associations where the minority of the units are deed-restricted units

RI S0387

Requires the installation of universal changing stations in all newly constructed, reconstructed, or remodeled public buildings and places of public accommodation.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.