Rhode Island House Introduces 15 Bills to Boost Housing, Improve Planning Education
Fifteen new bills have been introduced in the Rhode Island House to boost housing development and improve education in planning fields. The legislative package aims to streamline processes, enhance educational opportunities, and promote career growth.
The House has proposed several bills to modernize and simplify development processes. 2024-H 7983 clarifies the role of the State Building Code Commissioner and standardizes certification processes for municipal building officials. Meanwhile, 2024-H 7979 enables municipalities to combine their zoning and planning boards into a single 'combined review board' for efficiency.
In the realm of housing, 2024-H 7980 allows manufactured homes to be constructed as single-family homes on any lot zoned for single-family use. Additionally, 2024-H 7981 permits residential uses by right in most commercial and industrial zones, promoting mixed-use developments.
To enhance education and workforce development, the House has established a 11-member commission through 2024-H 7977. This commission, comprising state legislators, education experts, and industry professionals, aims to improve educational opportunities, curricula, and career prospects in planning fields. Furthermore, 2024-H 7978 mandates all municipalities to adopt and implement electronic permitting for all development applications, bringing processes into the digital age.
These bills, if enacted, will significantly impact housing development and planning education in Rhode Island. They promise to simplify processes, encourage diverse housing options, and bolster educational opportunities, ultimately fostering a more robust and adaptable workforce.
