H8243

Prohibits disclosure terms "down payment", "money down", or any similar language to describe lump sum payments in order to reduce monthly lease payments. Provides that lump sum payments are non-refundable in the event of a total loss of the vehicle.

Introduced·3/6/26
Introduced Text

Rhode Island H8243 prohibits leasing disclosures from using terms like "down payment" or "money down" for lump sum payments.

Rhode Island H8243 amends the state's deceptive trade practices law to prohibit leasing contracts from using terms such as "down payment" or "money down" to describe lump sum payments made to reduce monthly lease payments. The bill mandates that these payments be clearly disclosed as non-refundable in the event of a total loss of the vehicle. Any contract that fails to comply with these provisions can be voided by the borrower within thirty days.

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  • Overview
  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

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Where it stands

Current
Corporations Committee
Next
Committee decision

Sponsors

0
1
R
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Calendar

Apr 2

12:00 AM

House Corporations Hearing

History

Apr 2

House

Committee recommended measure be held for further study

Mar 27

House

Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration (04/02/2026)

Mar 6

House

Introduced, referred to House Corporations