The bill amends the Rhode Island Housing Resources Act of 1998 by introducing a new section, 42-128-18, which requires developers proposing to develop a project, including qualified Rhode Island projects, to submit a comprehensive assessment to each municipality where the project will be physically located as part of the municipal approval process.

The comprehensive assessment must identify, to the extent practical, the impact of the project on municipal services and operations, including quantified estimates of the fiscal impact on schools, transportation, public safety, water supply, wastewater systems, and environmental resources. Developers are required to collaborate with municipal and school officials to identify potential challenges and mitigation measures if the project is approved, developed, and completed.

The costs associated with conducting the comprehensive assessment will be borne by the developers to alleviate financial burdens on municipalities. Municipalities are mandated to establish clear guidelines for the review and public disclosure of assessment findings to enhance community engagement and accountability. The comprehensive assessment will be considered a public record as defined in § 38-2-2. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on July 1, 2025.