The bill proposes the repeal of Chapter 45-53, which pertains to low and moderate-income housing in Rhode Island, and introduces new sections that establish a framework for affordable, safe, and sanitary housing. It emphasizes the need for municipalities to facilitate the development of such housing and allows applicants to submit a single comprehensive permit application if at least 25% of the units are designated as low- or moderate-income. The bill includes various zoning incentives, such as density bonuses, and restricts local ordinances that could impede the approval of these applications, promoting the efficient construction of affordable housing.

Additionally, the bill outlines a new appeals process for decisions made by local review boards, replacing existing provisions with updated language that prioritizes the review of appeals in superior court. It mandates the transfer of pending matters from the state housing appeals board to the superior court by January 1, 2024, and clarifies the court's role in reviewing appeals without substituting its judgment for that of local boards.

The bill also establishes an oversight commission to monitor housing laws and includes provisions for annual reporting on housing development activities. Furthermore, it mandates the adoption of electronic permitting for development applications by municipalities by October 1, 2025. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the framework for low and moderate-income housing in the state, streamline the approval process, and improve accountability and efficiency in housing development.