The bill amends Section 45-53-4 of the General Laws in Chapter 45-53, titled "Low and Moderate Income Housing," to establish a procedure for the approval of construction of low- or moderate-income housing. Effective January 1, 2026, the bill allows applicants to submit a single comprehensive permit application if at least 25% of the housing units are designated as low- or moderate-income.

Key provisions include the elimination of existing mandated housing densities for lands used for drinking water, specifically public drinking water supply watersheds and groundwater classified as GAA, which are not eligible for density bonuses under this chapter. The bill also requires that housing densities do not exceed the availability of onsite drinking water supplies, do not introduce pollution that makes drinking water unsuitable for use, and stay within the capacity limits of any public water or sewer system.

Additionally, the bill introduces new regulations to ensure that competent evidence is provided regarding the availability and capacity of water to service the development. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2691: 45-53-4