Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2269

Introduced

1/23/26

Refer

1/23/26

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 an alleged housing code violation, along with any hearing dates scheduled for the violation.

Impact

The bill constitutes a significant modification in the regulations governing the interaction between housing code enforcement officers and tenants. By mandating that tenants receive direct notifications about alleged violations in their buildings, the bill aligns with tenants' rights, empowering them with knowledge about their living situations. Additionally, it requires enforcement officers to ensure that notice processes are effectively communicated to residents, potentially leading to more informed and engaged tenants who can advocate for necessary repairs or actions.

Summary

Bill S2269 introduces an amendment to the Housing Maintenance and Occupancy Code, specifically addressing how notices of housing code violations must be handled. The core objective of this bill is to ensure that all tenants in a building affected by an alleged housing code violation receive a copy of the notice, along with information regarding any scheduled hearings related to that violation. This is aimed at promoting transparency and ensuring that tenants are informed about issues that may affect their living conditions.

Contention

While the bill has the potential to enhance tenant rights, it may also introduce complexities for landlords and property management. Some stakeholders could argue that this places an extra burden on housing enforcement officers, as they must ensure compliance with the new notification requirements. Furthermore, landlords might express concerns about the implications of delayed notifications or potential legal liabilities associated with not informing tenants adequately. The balance between necessary oversight and the practical realities of enforcement remains a point of discussion in legislative circles.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5267

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.

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 S0744

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 H5188

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 H5264

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

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.