AN ACT RELATING TO INSURANCE -- WEATHER-RELATED LOSSES

This bill establishes the "Strengthen Rhody Homes" program within Rhode Island's Department of Business Regulation to help homeowners make their homes more resilient to hurricanes and other catastrophic weather events. The program would use federal grants or other funding sources to provide financial assistance for construction or retrofitting projects that meet specific building standards, such as the IBHS Fortified Homes Program. To qualify, homeowners must own and occupy a single-family primary residence in good repair, have wind and flood insurance if applicable, and follow strict application and construction requirements including hiring certified contractors. The bill clarifies that the state is not obligated to fund these projects and that grant funds are paid directly to contractors once work is completed and verified.