This bill amends Section 45-2-21 of the General Laws to authorize the city of Cranston to establish a municipal court and a housing division within that court. The city council of Cranston may appoint judges and clerks for both the municipal court and the housing division, and is empowered to enact ordinances governing their operations.

The housing division will have original jurisdiction to hear and determine cases involving violations of the city's zoning ordinances, minimum housing standards, housing maintenance and occupancy codes, and other related local ordinances. It will also have jurisdiction over violations of the state building code and its associated regulations. The housing division is authorized to impose penalties, including fines not exceeding $500 and sentences of up to 30 days in jail. Additionally, it can administer oaths, compel the attendance of witnesses, and punish for contempt.

The housing division may take equitable actions to enforce compliance with housing regulations, such as ordering repairs, vacation, or demolition of non-compliant dwellings, and can place properties into receivership. Any party aggrieved by a final judgment, decree, or order of the housing division may appeal to the superior court within 20 days for a trial de novo. This act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2401: 45-2-21