The proposed bill amends the Rhode Island Fair Housing Practices Act to enhance protections against discrimination in housing, particularly focusing on individuals with disabilities and those without a fixed residence. It introduces new definitions, such as "assistance animal" and "service animal," while also amending the definition of "housing status" to emphasize the lack of a fixed residence. The term "discriminate" is expanded to include differentiation based on housing status, and it becomes unlawful for housing owners or their agents to inquire about various protected characteristics, including housing status. This inclusion aims to prevent discrimination against individuals based on their housing situation, ensuring they have equal access to housing accommodations.

Additionally, the bill outlines the procedures for a commission tasked with addressing unlawful housing practices, emphasizing informal resolution methods before formal proceedings. It allows the commission to investigate complaints, issue orders, and impose civil penalties for discriminatory practices, with a maximum penalty of $50,000 for repeat offenders. The bill also promotes transparency by removing restrictions on public discussions of fair housing cases and grants the commission the authority to file complaints in superior court for injunctive relief. Overall, the bill seeks to align state law with federal standards and improve fair housing practices in Rhode Island, with provisions set to take effect upon passage.