Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H8107

Introduced
2/27/26  

Caption

Repeals the provisions of § 34-7-4 regarding rights of footway being acquired by adverse possession.

Impact

The repeal would significantly impact state property laws, enabling landowners and others who have used footways for significant periods of time to formally claim rights over these paths. This could lead to changes in land use dynamics, particularly in rural and suburban areas where informal paths are more common. By acknowledging adverse possession claims for footways, the bill may contribute to increased access for pedestrians, enhancing connectivity within communities and facilitating safer passage across properties. However, this could also raise concerns among some private property owners who may fear losing control over their land.

Summary

House Bill 8107 seeks to amend the regulations surrounding property rights specifically related to the acquisition of a right of footway. This bill proposes the repeal of Section 34-7-4 of the General Laws regarding footway rights being acquired by adverse possession. Currently, this section prohibits any rights of footway from being claimed or established without accompanying rights for vehicles, meaning that informal or traditional footpaths cannot be established through adverse use over time. The intention of this bill is to eliminate these restrictions, thereby allowing individuals to potentially claim rights to footways based on prolonged use even if such rights are not formally documented.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding H8107 revolves around the implications it has for current property owners and their rights. Proponents argue that the bill would protect the longstanding usage patterns of such paths, promoting community sharing and access. Opponents, however, may view this as an undermining of property rights, asserting that it could lead to unauthorized claims and potential disputes over informal but long-established pathways. The tension between communal access and private property rights is likely to be at the forefront of discussions as the bill moves through legislative channels.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0527

Denies the right of footway, except within one hundred (100) yards of the Pawtuxet River in the cities of Warwick and Cranston and excepts in connection with a right to pass with carriages, to be acquired by prescription or adverse use.

RI H5401

Repeals pet care services from the service subject to sales tax as defined by §§ 44-18-7(19) and 44-18-7.3(b)(3).

RI H5648

Requires sentencing court to consider whether defendant is parent of child, or caregiver of elderly, disabled or terminally ill person whose well-being would be adversely affected by the person's incarceration and if so, shall impose a non-jail sentence.

RI S0560

Amends §§ 14-1-3 and 14-5-8, relating to possession of marijuana and proceedings in family court ensuring that children under 17 years of age in possession of less than 2 oz of marijuana are subject to the jurisdiction of the family court.

RI H5894

Amends §§ 14-1-3 and 14-5-8, relating to possession of marijuana and proceedings in family court ensuring that children under 17 years of age in possession of less than 2 oz of marijuana are subject to the jurisdiction of the family court.

RI S0150

Prohibits the sale or possession of firearm silencers unless the person complies with federal law in the sale, possession and use.

RI H5042

Repeals the provisions of the general laws allowing deferred deposit providers, also known as "payday lenders."

RI S0229

Repeals the provisions of the general laws allowing deferred deposit providers, also known as "payday lenders."

RI S0734

Prohibits sale and possession of assault weapons, as defined and would provide certain exemptions to include law enforcement officers and those individuals legally in possession of any such firearm at the time of passage of this act.

RI H5348

Repeals the required HIV testing for an individual convicted under chapter 34.1 of title 11 and allows the option for HIV testing for any person convicted under this chapter.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.