The bill amends Chapter 45-53 of the General Laws regarding "Low and Moderate Income Housing" by adding a new section specifically for the town of Tiverton. This new section, designated as 45-53-17, mandates that prior to the commencement of any proposed construction of low- or moderate-income housing, the town may require testing to be performed by and at the expense of the developer or builder. The purpose of this testing is to establish whether any existing or newly proposed private or public wells shall be adversely affected, including but not limited to dewatering or loss of effective recharge.

The results of these tests must be submitted to the town engineer, with a copy provided to the department of public works. If any adverse consequences are identified as a result of the testing, the developer or builder is responsible for eliminating or mitigating these issues at their sole expense to prevent serious harm or loss of water service to existing wells. The town engineer and/or other town personnel appointed by the town council must approve the proposals submitted by the developer or builder to address the adverse consequences.

Additionally, the testing must comply with all regulations issued by the department of environmental management and the department of health. The department of environmental management is also authorized to promulgate rules and regulations to implement the requirements of this section. The act will take effect upon its passage.