AN ACT RELATING TO TOWNS AND CITIES -- HOUSING -- STATE-FUNDED RENTAL SUBSIDY PROGRAM

HB 7803 establishes a state-funded rental subsidy program in Rhode Island to help extremely low, very low, and low-income households experiencing or at risk of homelessness. It allocates $25 million from the state general fund (starting July 2026) to provide project-based rental assistance, meaning the subsidy is tied to specific housing units rather than individual tenants. The program requires that tenants pay no more than 30% of their gross income toward rent (after utility allowances), regardless of area median income thresholds, and prioritizes households referred through Rhode Island’s Continuum of Care or Olmstead Plan. The program will be administered by the state’s executive office of housing, ensuring units meet federal safety standards and comply with fair housing laws.