This bill amends the General Laws in Chapter 45-53, "Low and Moderate Income Housing," by revising the procedures for the approval and review of comprehensive permit applications for low- or moderate-income housing. It introduces a single application process for such housing, allowing applicants to submit one comprehensive permit application instead of multiple applications to local boards. The amendment also permits municipalities to impose fees on applications, provided they do not render nonprofit projects financially infeasible, and outlines the process for minor and major land developments, including public hearings and decision timelines. The bill removes the provision for appeals to the state housing appeals board and the superior court, and it sets conditions for the expiration of comprehensive permits. Additionally, it limits the number of units for-profit developers can apply for in towns meeting local housing needs and requires local review boards to report to the housing resources commission.

The bill imposes a moratorium on comprehensive permit applications from private for-profit developers until January 31, 2005, with the possibility of extension. It also mandates that towns and cities not in conformity with certain housing provisions must prepare a comprehensive plan housing element by December 31, 2004. The bill introduces new provisions for appeals to the state housing appeals board and judicial review, effective January 1, 2023, with a sunset clause for these provisions on January 1, 2024. It specifies the process for appealing decisions to the superior court and the standards the court must use when reviewing appeals. The bill also amends the powers of the state housing appeals board until January 1, 2024, and details the criteria for reviewing appeals. Lastly, it includes insertions that modify the composition and operation of the housing appeals board, with specific representation from various organizations and sectors, and transfers the duties of providing space and clerical assistance to the board from Rhode Island housing to the commission effective January 1, 2023. The act will take effect upon passage.