This bill makes several amendments to the General Laws regarding property taxation in Rhode Island. It adds a new section that lists the types of property that are exempt from taxation, including property belonging to the state, lands ceded or belonging to the United States, and property used for military, educational, religious, and charitable purposes. The bill also allows the town of Smithfield to bill a private nonprofit college or university for certain services.

The bill also amends the definition of "manufacturer" to exclude certain types of businesses and includes exemptions for water or air pollution control facilities, manufacturing machinery and equipment, research and development equipment, and property owned by charitable organizations. The bill also adds several organizations and properties to the list of entities exempt from property taxation, including the Providence Performing Arts Center and the Stadium Theatre Performing Arts Centre. Additionally, the bill adds the Little Flower Home to the list of organizations exempt from taxation, as long as it remains a federal tax-exempt corporation and a nonprofit charitable corporation. The bill also allows cities, towns, and fire districts to establish exemptions for tangible personal property within their jurisdiction.

Statutes affected:
983: 44-3-3