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Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee signed a package of 14 housing bills into law Thursday, aiming to accelerate housing production and increase the state’s housing stock.
The ceremonial signing took place at the Warwick Housing Authority, where McKee was joined by House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi, who championed the legislative package, along with other state and local officials.
“Housing is a pathway to better health outcomes, good-paying jobs, generational wealth and a stronger economy for our state,” McKee said. “I’m proud to sign these bills which will streamline production and cut through the red tape to spur more development across Rhode Island.”
The new laws address various aspects of housing development, from allowing accessory dwelling units to reforming the State Building Code Office.
One bill, sponsored by Rep. Terri Cortvriend (D-Dist. 72, Middletown, Portsmouth) and Sen. Mark P. McKenney (D-Dist. 30, Warwick), simplifies wetlands zoning regulations to spur housing development. It amends provisions related to zoning ordinances for wetland buffers in development projects, clarifying that local regulations cannot exceed state agency requirements for coastal and freshwater wetlands.
Another measure, sponsored by Sen. Dawn Euer (D-Dist. 13, Newport, Jamestown), along with Rep. Leonela Felix (D-Dist. 61, Pawtucket), requires municipalities to allow at least three types of financial security for developers on projects involving public improvements. This change aims to encourage development by providing more flexibility in financing options.
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