The proposed bill, known as the "Faith-Based Affordable Housing Development Act," aims to address the housing shortage in Rhode Island by allowing faith-based organizations to develop affordable and mixed-use housing on land they own as a by-right use. The legislation seeks to streamline the development process by establishing statewide development standards, limiting local barriers, and promoting community-focused developments.

Key provisions of the bill include definitions for terms such as "affordable housing," "mixed-use development," and "ministerial review," which emphasizes a non-discretionary approval process based solely on objective standards without public hearings.

The bill outlines eligibility criteria for projects, including that they must be owned or controlled by a faith-based organization, located in zones permitting residential or commercial uses, and comply with applicable building, fire, health, and safety codes. It preempts local ordinances that conflict with its provisions, prohibits municipalities from imposing discretionary review or additional fees, and ensures that targeted regulations singling out faith-based organization projects are void.

Additionally, the act establishes base development incentives, allowing for a density of thirty dwelling units per acre, height bonuses, and no minimum parking requirements for residential or ancillary uses. It also provides bonus incentives for projects that include active ground floor uses or a significant number of two-bedroom units.

Environmental and safety requirements are included, such as compliance with floodplain standards and geotechnical analyses for projects on steep slopes. Certain sites, including those near industrial uses and environmentally protected lands, are exempt from the act's provisions.

The Rhode Island Housing and Mortgage Finance Corporation is designated to monitor compliance with the act, which will take effect upon passage.