The bill amends various sections of 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 a requirement for state agencies to hold a public hearing within sixty days if they wish to undertake a program or project that does not conform to an approved local comprehensive plan or zoning ordinance. During this hearing, the state agency must demonstrate that the proposal aligns with the state guide plan, addresses the health, safety, and welfare needs of Rhode Island residents, incorporates local design standards where feasible, and has assessed potential impacts on local resources.

Furthermore, the bill specifies that local regulations and zoning ordinances will not apply to state projects on the aforementioned lands, provided that the public hearing has been conducted as required. This change aims to streamline the process for housing development on state-owned properties while ensuring that local municipalities are informed and involved in the decision-making process. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
1093: 45-22.2-10, 45-23-27, 45-24-28