The bill amends the Rhode Island Comprehensive Planning and Land Use Act to facilitate the development of state-owned vacant, abandoned, or underutilized land for housing purposes. Key provisions include the requirement for state agencies to hold a public hearing within 30 days if they wish to undertake a project that does not conform to an approved local comprehensive plan or zoning ordinance. During this hearing, the state agency must demonstrate that the project aligns with the state guide plan, addresses health and safety needs, incorporates local design standards, and does not negatively impact local infrastructure. Additionally, the bill allows state agencies to partner with or transfer property to nonprofit or private entities after project completion.

The bill also clarifies that local regulations and processes do not apply to state projects on the specified state-owned lands, provided they have undergone the required public hearing. This change is reflected in the amendments to Sections 45-22.2-10, 45-23-27, and 45-24-28, which include new insertions that outline these procedures and conditions. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
5802: 45-22.2-10, 45-23-27, 45-24-28