The bill amends Section 45-2-19 of the General Laws to expand the jurisdiction of the municipal court for the city of Warwick. The court will have original jurisdiction to hear and determine cases involving violations of the city's zoning ordinances, historical area zoning, minimum housing standards, housing maintenance and occupancy code, subdivision of land, and various state building codes. Defendants found guilty in these matters may appeal to the superior court and are entitled to a trial de novo.

The bill removes the provision allowing the municipal court to impose jail sentences, instead permitting fines of up to $500 for each violation. The city council may also confer upon the municipal court the authority to impose fines for violations of minimum housing matters. The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2149: 45-2-19