S.2481

Defines squatter as a person occupying a dwelling unit who is not authorized by the property owner, landlord or tenant to occupy the unit and provides remedies for property owner including police assistance to remove a squatter.

Introduced·2/6/26

Rhode Island S2481 defines squatting as unauthorized occupancy of a dwelling unit and provides remedies for property owners.

Rhode Island S2481 defines a squatter as someone occupying a dwelling unit without authorization from the property owner, landlord, or tenant. It establishes squatting as a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $1,000, imprisonment for up to one year, or both. The bill also provides remedies for property owners, including the ability to seek police assistance to remove and arrest a squatter. Squatters are not afforded tenant rights and protections under the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. The act takes effect upon passage.

Included in complete analysis

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

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Where it stands

Current
Judiciary Committee
Next
Session adjourned — paused until it reconvenes

Sponsors

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9
1
R
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Roll Call Votes

28 Yea

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9 Nay

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1 Not Voting

D

Calendar

May 21

12:00 AM

Senate Judiciary Consideration

May 12

12:00 AM

Senate Judiciary Hearing

History

May 29

House

Referred to House Judiciary

May 28

Senate

Senate passed as amended (floor amendment)

May 22

Senate

Placed on Senate Calendar (05/28/2026)