The proposed "Residential Tenant's Right to Legal Representation Act" aims to enhance legal protections for tenants at risk of eviction. The bill establishes a Division of Civil Representation within the Rhode Island Department of Housing, which will oversee legal representation programs and community education initiatives. Key provisions include the creation of a civil right to legal representation for eligible individuals in eviction actions, the establishment of designated community organizations to provide education, and the creation of designated legal organizations to offer legal services.

The act mandates that all leases include notice of the tenant's right to legal representation, and any lease provisions that attempt to waive this right will be deemed void and unenforceable. Additionally, the bill amends Section 34-18-56 of the General Laws in the "Residential Landlord and Tenant Act" to update notices and complaint forms related to eviction actions. New language is inserted to inform tenants of their potential entitlement to legal representation through designated legal organizations, specifically directing them to contact the Division of Civil Representation.

The amendments maintain existing notice structures while enhancing clarity and emphasizing tenant rights, allowing tenants to assert defenses against eviction and file counterclaims for damages. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
512: 34-18-56