Rhode Island Code of Regulations Title 860 - Housing Resources Commission
The Rhode Island Code of Regulations, Title 860 – Housing Resources Commission pertains to the Housing Resources Commission (HRC), which is responsible for overseeing housing policy, programs, and services within the state of Rhode Island. The HRC plays a key role in administering housing programs, facilitating affordable housing development, and ensuring that housing needs across the state are met in an equitable and sustainable manner.
Key Areas Covered
General Provisions
Purpose: Defines the mission and authority of the Housing Resources Commission, which is to support the creation and maintenance of affordable housing in Rhode Island.
Definitions: Provides clear definitions for terms like "affordable housing," "low-income housing," and "housing assistance," which are essential to understanding the regulation’s scope.
Governance and Structure
Describes the organizational structure of the HRC, including the responsibilities of commission members, staff, and any advisory groups or committees that assist the Commission in its duties.
Outlines the powers of the HRC in carrying out its objectives, which may include grant administration, oversight of housing programs, and advisory roles to state agencies and local governments.
Housing Policy and Planning
State Housing Plan: Establishes the guidelines for the development of housing policy, strategic planning efforts, and the identification of statewide housing needs.
Emphasizes the importance of planning for diverse housing options, particularly in addressing the needs of low-income and vulnerable populations.
Details the evaluation of housing data and the ways in which the Commission assesses housing demand and housing affordability across Rhode Island.
Affordable Housing Development
Sets regulations for the development of affordable housing, including the criteria for project approval, eligibility requirements for developers, and guidelines for funding sources.
Addresses how the Commission supports the creation of new affordable units, as well as the preservation and rehabilitation of existing housing stock.
Details programs like the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program and other financial incentives designed to promote the development of affordable housing.
Financing and Funding Programs
Outlines the various funding programs available through the Commission, such as grants, loans, and tax credits to support housing development and rehabilitation.
Discusses eligibility criteria for these programs and how funds are allocated to projects aimed at improving the state's affordable housing infrastructure.
Includes regulations for the management and oversight of housing finance programs, ensuring that funds are used efficiently and in compliance with state and federal laws.
Fair Housing and Non-Discrimination
Establishes the Commission’s role in ensuring that fair housing practices are followed in all housing-related programs and services.
Covers anti-discrimination policies, ensuring equal access to housing for all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, disability, or familial status.
Provides mechanisms for addressing complaints related to housing discrimination and outlines the Commission’s role in enforcement and compliance.
Housing Assistance Programs
Discusses various programs that provide direct housing assistance to individuals and families in need, such as rent subsidies, Section 8 vouchers, and emergency housing assistance.
Includes guidelines for program eligibility, application procedures, and the management of waiting lists for housing assistance.
Addresses the role of the HRC in administering subsidies, rental assistance, and other forms of housing support to low- and moderate-income residents.
Local Housing Programs and Support
Provides guidelines for the collaboration between local governments and the Housing Resources Commission in addressing community-level housing needs.
Encourages regional housing planning, where local municipalities work together to address shared housing issues, such as zoning and land-use planning.
Includes regulations on how local housing authorities can access state funding for housing programs and projects.
Housing Compliance and Monitoring
Outlines the monitoring and compliance procedures for housing projects funded or supported by the Commission, including the tracking of units built or rehabilitated under affordable housing programs.
Covers how the Commission ensures that developers and housing providers meet regulatory requirements, including income eligibility, rent limits, and quality standards.
Addresses the auditing process and how the Commission ensures that funds are used according to the rules set forth in the housing agreements.
Community Education and Outreach
Establishes the Commission’s responsibility in providing education and outreach to residents and community members regarding their rights, housing options, and available programs.
Covers efforts to increase public awareness about housing issues and to provide technical assistance to municipalities, developers, and housing advocates.
Supports the creation of programs to help individuals navigate the complex world of housing programs, including applications for assistance and understanding housing laws.
Purpose of Title 860 – Housing Resources Commission
The primary goal of Title 860 is to provide a comprehensive regulatory framework for the development, management, and oversight of affordable housing in Rhode Island. It ensures that the Housing Resources Commission can:
Promote affordable housing development.
Administer housing assistance programs fairly and effectively.
Ensure fair access to housing and address housing discrimination.
Oversee the funding and financing of housing projects to meet the diverse needs of Rhode Island residents.
This regulatory framework helps ensure that Rhode Island’s housing landscape is accessible to all residents, with a focus on low-income families, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities.
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