This bill, titled the "Homeless Shelter Standard Act," seeks to amend the existing "Homeless Bill of Rights" in Chapter 34-37.1 of the General Laws. The bill adds a new section, 34-37.1-7, which establishes a homeless shelter standard. The bill states that all homeless persons have the right to homeless shelter services regardless of various factors such as political or religious beliefs, immigration status, former geographic location of residence, ethno-cultural background, disability, gender identity, criminal background, and sexual orientation. It also states that homeless shelters should provide an atmosphere of dignity and respect for all shelter residents and should provide services in a non-judgmental manner. The bill further outlines various findings and principles related to homeless shelter services, including the importance of privacy and confidentiality, access to safe and nutritious food, and the involvement of shelter residents in program planning and policy development.

The bill also establishes an 11-member committee to draft regulations for homeless shelters and provide recommendations related to the operation of homeless shelters. The committee will be appointed by the chair of the Rhode Island housing resources commission and will include representatives from homeless advocacy organizations, homeless shelter providers, the Rhode Island office of housing and community development, and domestic violence shelter providers. The committee will be responsible for defining the characteristics of a homeless shelter subject to the regulations and standards established by the bill, as well as making recommendations on various topics such as organizational standards, access to shelter guidelines, residents' rights and responsibilities, program standards, health and safety standards, and emergency and winter shelter standards. The bill specifies that no shelter regulation shall deny access to individuals due to their being subject to community notification requirements, and no state or municipal agency shall request or require a shelter to impose such restrictions. The bill will take effect upon passage.