This bill amends several sections of the General Laws in Chapter 34-44, which pertains to abandoned property. Key changes include the introduction of a new section, 34-44-1.1, requiring towns and cities to maintain an inventory of abandoned properties, including the record owner or owners and lienholders, as available from the tax assessor and land evidence. Property owners or lienholders are granted the right, but not the obligation, to cure conditions that may lead to a property being classified as abandoned within a reasonable time before any judicial proceedings.

The bill adds a definition for "eligible nonprofit corporation" (ENC) and clarifies the criteria for determining whether a property is considered abandoned. Notably, properties will not be deemed abandoned if they are part of a documented redevelopment plan financed with public funds or if they are maintained by responsive owners addressing health or safety issues.

Additionally, the bill outlines the process for seeking injunctive relief against property owners whose buildings are deemed abandoned or public nuisances. Municipalities, neighboring landowners, or ENCs can apply for injunctions to compel property owners to address violations. The court is required to conduct hearings on the requested injunctive relief, ensuring that notice is served to property owners and lienholders. The bill establishes documentation requirements for violations and conditions of abandonment, ensuring a structured approach to addressing abandoned properties and public nuisances. The provisions of this chapter do not apply to properties owned by the Rhode Island housing and mortgage finance corporation or its subsidiaries. The act will take effect upon passage.