The proposed bill introduces the "Rhode Island Inclusive Home Design Act" as an amendment to Chapter 23-27.3 of the General Laws, establishing new definitions and requirements for "covered dwelling units." These units, which receive federal, state, or local financial assistance, must include at least one level that adheres to the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Standards for Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, specifically the Type C (Visitable) Units. The bill allows for waivers from the building code standards committee in cases where compliance would impose an undue burden or increase project costs by more than one percent.

In addition to the accessibility requirements, the bill outlines enforcement mechanisms, including civil damages that the State can recover from developers for non-compliance, which may cover legal fees up to the total amount of financial assistance received. It empowers state and local agencies, as well as residents, to file civil actions in superior court for violations, and clarifies the joint and several liabilities of agencies and construction entities for approved plans that do not comply with the new standards. The act is set to take effect upon passage, reinforcing the state's commitment to enhancing accessibility in housing design.