Title 34
Property
Chapter 37
Rhode Island Fair Housing Practices Act
R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-37-4.1
§ 34-37-4.1. Discrimination in familial status — Exemptions.
(a) Nothing in this chapter requires an owner of a housing accommodation to rent to a
family with children if:
(1) The housing accommodation is two (2) units, one of which is occupied by the owner;
(2) The housing accommodation is of four (4) units or less, the owner actually maintains
and occupies one of those living quarters as his or her residence and one of those
units is already occupied by a senior citizen or infirm person for whom the presence
of children would constitute a demonstrated hardship;
(3) The housing accommodation was provided under any state or federal program which is
designed and operated to assist elderly persons;
(4) The housing accommodation is intended for and solely occupied by persons sixty-two
(62) years of age or older; or
(5) The housing accommodation is intended and operated for occupancy by at least one person
fifty-five (55) years of age or older per unit. Provided that:
(i) At least eighty percent (80%) of the units are occupied by at least one person fifty-five
(55) years of age or older per unit; and
(ii) The housing accommodation has significant facilities and services designed to meet
the physical or social needs of older persons, or if the provisions of those facilities
and services is not practicable, that the housing is necessary to provide important
opportunities for older persons;
(iii) The owner or manager has published and adhered to policies and procedures which demonstrate
an intent to provide housing for persons fifty-five (55) years of age or older.