The "Rhode Island Inclusive Home Design Act" is a proposed addition to the state's building code that requires new housing units to be accessible to individuals with disabilities. The bill specifically targets "covered dwelling units," which include various types of residences such as detached single-family houses, townhouses, and certain multi-unit buildings, particularly those that have received federal, state, or local financial assistance and are available for occupancy after the act's effective date. These units must adhere to the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Standards for Type C (Visitable) Units. The bill outlines enforcement mechanisms, including the necessity for compliance assurance from applicants of financial assistance and the submission of plans to the building code standards committee for approval. The committee is also empowered to grant waivers under certain conditions.

The bill further details the enforcement actions and penalties for non-compliance, including the withholding of final approval for construction or occupancy and the recovery of civil damages. The State of Rhode Island can recover damages and legal fees from developers up to the total amount of financial assistance received, with funds going to the state's general fund. A broad range of parties, including government agencies, officials, and residents, can file civil actions. The bill assigns liability to state or local agencies and construction entities for violations and grants the state attorney general the authority to bring or intervene in civil actions. Relief options include actual and punitive damages, injunctions, and attorneys' fees. The bill clarifies that it does not supersede existing laws with similar protections or limit constitutional rights or remedies and will take effect upon passage.