The bill amends Chapter 45-24 of the General Laws regarding "Zoning Ordinances" by introducing a new section, 45-24-78, which establishes regulations for student housing licensing. It defines "student" as an individual enrolled as an undergraduate or graduate student at any state college or private university within the state who commutes to a campus, and "student housing" as a dwelling unit inhabited exclusively by students. The bill grants municipalities the authority to require private real property owners to obtain a license to operate a dwelling unit as student housing. Ordinances adopted pursuant to this section may include, but are not limited to, annual or periodic licensing or registration requirements, inspection requirements, enforcement procedures, and administrative appeal procedures.

The licensing requirements will apply only to dwelling units located within the boundaries of the municipality enacting the ordinance. The bill specifies exceptions for dormitories, residence halls, or other housing owned, operated, or directly controlled by an educational institution; dwelling units owned or leased by an educational institution; and dwelling units where rents are regulated under a federal, state, or local housing program limiting rent levels, including public housing or units rented through subsidies, vouchers, or waiver programs. The act is set to take effect upon passage.