Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7658

Introduced

2/11/26

Refer

2/11/26

Caption

Requires a housing code enforcement officer to give a copy of any housing code violation notice to all tenants of the building affected by a housing code violation along with any hearing dates scheduled for the violation.

Impact

The implications of H7658 are significant for state housing laws. By requiring that tenants are kept informed about violations and related proceedings, the bill not only empowers them but also enhances their ability to advocate for their rights and safety in their living conditions. This change may lead to an increased urgency for landlords to address and correct any violations to avoid further complications associated with tenant awareness and potential disputes that could escalate to formal hearings.

Summary

House Bill H7658 aims to amend the existing housing maintenance and occupancy code to enhance tenant awareness and involvement when housing code violations are identified. The bill mandates that housing code enforcement officers must provide copies of any notices regarding housing code violations to all tenants within the affected building. This provision is designed to ensure that tenants are informed of potential safety and health risks, as well as any hearings related to those violations, thus fostering greater transparency and accountability in housing management.

Contention

While the bill has received support for its focus on tenant rights, opposition exists primarily from landlords and property owners who may view this requirement as an additional burden. Critics argue that the obligation to notify all tenants could lead to unnecessary alarm or confusion among residents and could complicate the enforcement process. This contention highlights a broader debate over the balance of responsibilities and rights between landlords and tenants, as well as the effectiveness of existing housing enforcement mechanisms.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5267

RI S0906

Allows for a tenant to withhold payment of rent, and deposit the rent accruing into an escrow bearing account, upon the issuance of a second notice of violation by an enforcing officer for any state or local minimum housing code enforcement agency.

RI H5921

RI S0709

TOWNS AND CITIES -- HOUSING MAINTENANCE AND OCCUPANCY CODE -- NOTICE OF

RI S0804

Extends the repayment period for toll violations, and requires the RI transit and bridge authority to notify frequent violators by certified mail that their driver's license may be in jeopardy for failure to pay toll violations.

RI S0309

Gives authority to the department of labor and training to enforce violations of the laws relating to corrosion prevention and mitigation work requirements. This act would also add civil monetary penalties for violations of those laws.

RI H5188

Gives authority to the department of labor and training to enforce violations of the laws relating to corrosion prevention and mitigation work requirements. It also adds civil monetary penalties for violations of those laws.

RI S0744

RI S0580

Limits rent increases to no more than 4% annually unless the landlord is granted exemption by the secretary of housing. Provides tenants with a civil action to recover damages, including award of attorneys' fees and punitive damages, for any violations.

RI S1148

Authorizes municipalities to enforce noise violations statewide, along with the impoundment of radio or other sound-producing equipment.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.