The bill amends Section 34-9.1-2 of the General Laws regarding the maintenance of private easements and rights-of-way. It establishes that, in the absence of a written agreement, the owner of residential property benefiting from an easement or right-of-way is responsible for its maintenance and repair costs, including snow removal. The bill specifies that the costs of maintenance and repair should be shared among property owners in proportion to the benefit received, and it repeals the previous stipulation that the market value or assessed valuation of each property should not be considered in this calculation.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that any property owner who damages the easement or right-of-way is solely responsible for the repair of the damaged portion. It also provides a legal recourse for property owners to seek specific performance or contribution in court if another owner fails to fulfill their maintenance obligations. The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
7763: 34-9.1-2
7763  SUB A: 34-9.1-2