Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2972

Introduced
3/4/26  

Caption

Creates the division of civil representation within the department of housing and require civil representation by a Designated Legal Organization to provide legal representation to all tenants who qualify in eviction proceedings.

Impact

If enacted, S2972 would create a Division of Civil Representation within the Department of Housing responsible for administering the program designed to provide legal assistance to tenants. The bill stipulates that all landlords must include notices of tenants' rights to legal representation in relevant eviction notices and complaint forms. Importantly, any lease provisions waiving this right would be deemed void and unenforceable, thereby enhancing legal protections for vulnerable tenants in the state. This change aims to ease the process for individuals facing eviction and ensure they are informed of their rights.

Summary

S2972, known as the Residential Tenant's Right to Legal Representation Act, aims to establish the right to legal representation for tenants facing eviction in Rhode Island. The bill recognizes the significant disparities in eviction proceedings affecting low- to moderate-income individuals, particularly emphasizing the unique challenges faced by people of color. It asserts that legal representation in such proceedings is crucial to protect tenants' rights and maintain housing stability. The act mandates that eligible individuals receive legal representation through designated organizations set up within the Department of Housing.

Contention

The proposed legislation may face debates regarding its potential impact on landlords and the housing market. Proponents argue that providing legal representation to tenants will reduce homelessness and alleviate public expenses associated with housing instability. Detractors, however, may express concerns about the implications for landlords and the judicial system's capacity to handle increased legal cases. Moreover, the effectiveness of outreach and education initiatives within the designated community organizations could be a focal point for discussions, as ensuring that tenants are aware of their rights is fundamental to the success of the act.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0512

Creates the division of civil representation within the department of housing and require civil representation by a Designated Legal Organization to provide legal representation to all tenants who qualify in eviction proceedings.

RI S0353

Extends time for a party to apply for stay of arbitration to180 days; invalidates any provision that penalizes a party for seeking legal representation; requires arbitrator to provide notice of default to a party for failure to pay fees.

RI H5719

Advances the interests of older Rhode Islanders by adding a representative of an aging adult organization and a permanent committee on aging to the state planning council and creates a permanent legislative commission on aging adults.

RI S0612

Ensures that the department of housing is able to access the full calendar year worth of housing choice voucher data for the annual report required by this section and amends the content of the information required to be submitted in the annual report.

RI H5007

HOUSE RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE RULES OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES FOR THE YEARS 2025 AND 2026

RI H5016

HOUSE RESOLUTION AMENDING THE RULES OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES FOR THE YEARS 2023-2024 (Requires that all legislative grants allocated to the senate be distributed in accordance with the rules of the Senate and that all legislative grants allocated to the House of Representatives be divided equally among the 75 legislative districts.)

RI H5165

Requires the school board or committees of cities and towns to establish a safety and behavioral health committee and also lays out the representation requirements committee responsibilities to ensure a stable learning environment for all students.

RI S0235

Requires the school board or committees of cities and towns to establish a safety and behavioral health committee and also lays out the representation requirements committee responsibilities to ensure a stable learning environment for all students.

RI H5632

Requires prescription drug manufacturers to file a detailed, updated list of each pharmaceutical sales representative engaged by the manufacturer and to pay an annual fee for each name listed with the department of business regulation.

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.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.