RI H7445

Faith-based organizations (churches, temples, mosques, synagogues, religious higher education institutions) may develop affordable housing as a use-by-right on property they own or control through fee ownership or lease of at least 55 years

Affordable housing units must be restricted to households earning no more than 80% of area median income as determined by HUD, with affordability periods consistent with state low-income housing tax credit requirements

Base development incentives include 30 dwelling units per acre, 2:1 floor area ratio, ability to exceed height limits by one story or 15 feet, and no minimum parking requirements for residential or ancillary uses

State law preempts local ordinances, prohibiting municipalities from imposing discretionary review, special permits, or additional fees beyond those for comparable by-right developments; ministerial review decisions must be issued within 15 days of complete application

Exemptions apply to sites within 1,600 feet of industrial uses under the federal Clean Air Act, environmentally protected lands, and wetlands; Rhode Island Housing and Mortgage Finance Corporation monitors compliance with referral to attorney general for enforcement