S.2271

Limits rent increases to no more than 4% annually unless the landlord is granted an exemption by secretary of housing, and provides tenants with civil action to recover damages, including award of attorneys' fees and punitive damages, for any violations.

Introduced·1/23/26
Introduced Text

Rhode Island S2271 limits annual rent increases to 4% unless exempted by the secretary of housing and allows tenants to sue for damages.

Rhode Island S2271 amends the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act to limit annual rent increases to no more than 4% unless the landlord is granted an exemption by the secretary of housing. Exemptions may be granted for reasons such as necessary repairs, participation in a federal, state, or local program, or other sufficient evidence. Tenants who suffer from rent increases exceeding the limit can take civil action to recover damages, including attorneys' fees and punitive damages. The act takes effect upon passage.

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

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Where it stands

Current
Housing and Municipal Government Committee
Next
Session adjourned — paused until it reconvenes

Sponsors

DD
2
0
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Roll Call Votes

Senate Committee on Housing & Municipal Government: Be held for further study

6 Yea

DRDDDD

0 Nay

3 Absent

DDD

Calendar

May 7

12:00 AM

Senate Housing and Municipal Government Hearing

History

May 7

Senate

Committee recommended measure be held for further study

May 1

Senate

Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration (05/07/2026)

Jan 23

Senate

Introduced, referred to Senate Housing and Municipal Government