RI H7179

Requires commercial property owners to install vehicle barriers at all newly constructed retail establishments to protect people from motor vehicle collisions into buildings

Vehicle barriers must meet Rhode Island building code commission standards for vehicle impact protection and maintain ADA-compliant wheelchair access

Exempts buildings from front entrance barrier requirements when parking lot lanes run parallel (not perpendicular) to the building entrance

Mandates insurers offer discounts on property and liability insurance for owners who install vehicle barriers, with discount rates subject to insurance commissioner approval for actuarial soundness

Encourages (but does not mandate) installation of barriers at existing retail locations; takes effect immediately upon passage