Housing (Renters)

SB 2043 requires owners of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) not occupied by family members or caretakers to rent them only at rates considered "affordable" under existing state law (§ 42-128-8.1). This directly affects ADU owners who rent to non-family tenants, mandating compliance with statewide affordable housing definitions. The bill also prohibits ADUs from being used for tourist rentals and voids private restrictions (like HOA rules) that conflict with these requirements. It does not change ADU construction rules but ensures rental rates for non-family-occupied units align with state affordability standards.

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

Grants tenants that are the victim of various forms of abuse including, but not limited to, sexual and domestic abuse and stalking, the right to terminate a lease agreement early without penalty or liability for rent. Effective 7/1/26.

This bill amends Rhode Island's Fair Housing Practices Act to explicitly allow tenants with disabilities to keep service animals (trained dogs) and emotional support animals (dogs or cats providing emotional support, without certification) in rental housing. It prohibits landlords from denying housing or imposing fees based on these animals. The law directly affects renters with disabilities who rely on such animals for daily living and ensures they cannot be discriminated against for this accommodation. Key provisions clarify definitions of "emotional support animal" and require landlords to make reasonable accommodations for these animals under fair housing law.