Rhode Island House approves extension for legislative commission, emergency municipal housing measure and Barrington charter amendments

The Rhode Island House of Representatives passed three measures during its March 4, 2025 session, including a resolution extending a legislative commission—s reporting date, a municipal emergency housing measure and validation of town charter amendments.

The most consequential measure for municipal authority was House Bill 5100 Sub A, which the House passed 68-1. Chairman Casey described HB 5100 Sub A as allowing "authorized municipalities to make emergency declarations under limited circumstances, allowing the construction of safe units on a temporary basis that have specialized requirements and exemptions from the state and fire, state and building state building and fire codes." Chairman Casey moved passage and Representative Lita Blaszczewski seconded the motion. The clerk recorded 68 affirmative votes and 1 negative vote; the bill passed and the act prevails.

A second item, House Resolution No. 5045, passed 69-0. The resolution, introduced by Representative Casimiro and presented in the chamber by Chairwoman…