S.3161

Authorizes municipalities, through ordinance, to require private real property owners to obtain a license to operate a dwelling unit as student housing.

Introduced·3/27/26
Introduced Text

Rhode Island S3161 allows municipalities to require licenses for private student housing.

Rhode Island S3161 authorizes municipalities to mandate private real property owners to obtain a license for operating dwelling units as student housing. This bill allows municipalities to create ordinances that include licensing, inspection, enforcement, and appeal procedures. The licensing requirement does not apply to dormitories, residence halls, or units owned or leased by educational institutions, or those regulated under federal, state, or local housing programs.

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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

D
1
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)

Mar 27

Senate

Introduced, referred to Senate Housing and Municipal Government