The bill amends Section 45-24.3-17 of the General Laws concerning the Housing Maintenance and Occupancy Code. It introduces new requirements for housing code enforcement officers when issuing a notice of violation for housing code failures. Specifically, the bill mandates that the notice must be served not only to the owner, occupant, operator, or agent but also directly to the residents affected by the violations. This can be done in person or via certified or registered mail, and the notice must be made available for review at a local municipal code enforcement office upon request.
Additionally, the bill requires that tenants be notified of any hearings related to the alleged violations in their dwelling units. The enforcement officer must summon the owner, occupant, operator, or agent to a hearing if violations are not corrected within the specified timeframe. The act aims to enhance communication and transparency regarding housing code violations, ensuring that tenants are informed and involved in the process. The act will take effect upon passage.
Statutes affected: 7658: 45-24.3-17