AN ACT RELATING TO STATE AFFAIRS AND GOVERNMENT -- TOURISM AND DEVELOPMENT

HB 7657 clarifies tax treatment for short-term residential rentals in Rhode Island by distinguishing them from commercial lodging. It requires owners listing properties on online rental platforms (like Airbnb) to register with the state department, providing details such as property address, owner contact, and whether the property is a primary residence. The bill exempts properties used as primary residences (where owners live 7+ months annually) or rented long-term (12+ months), focusing tax collection on true short-term rentals (under 30 nights). This creates a standardized registration system to ensure compliance with existing hotel taxes for short-term stays.