2026 -- H 8031

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LC005091

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     STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

IN GENERAL ASSEMBLY

JANUARY SESSION, A.D. 2026

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A N   A C T

RELATING TO TOWNS AND CITIES -- RHODE ISLAND COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING

AND LAND USE ACT

     Introduced By: Representative Joseph J. Solomon

     Date Introduced: February 27, 2026

     Referred To: House Municipal Government & Housing

     It is enacted by the General Assembly as follows:

     SECTION 1. Chapter 45-22.2 of the General Laws entitled "Rhode Island Comprehensive

Planning and Land Use Act" is hereby amended by adding thereto the following section:

     45-22.2-12.1. Extension of municipal comprehensive plan deadlines.

     (a) Upon written request of a city or town, the Rhode Island division of statewide planning

("the division") may grant an extension of the deadline for the update of a municipal comprehensive

plan for a period not to exceed twelve (12) months; provided that, the municipality has

demonstrated active engagement in the comprehensive plan update process, as determined by the

division, toward the preparation and submission of an update in accordance with this chapter.

     (b) In determining whether a municipality has demonstrated active engagement in the

update process, the division may consider, but shall not be limited to, whether the municipality has:

     (1) Initiated the comprehensive plan update process;

     (2) Engaged or procured professional planning or consulting services;

     (3) Conducted public outreach, workshops, or hearings;

     (4) Coordinated with state agencies or the division; or

     (5) Submitted draft materials or documentation for preliminary or formal review.

     (c) During any extension granted pursuant to this section, the municipality’s existing

comprehensive plan shall be deemed to remain in full force and effect for all purposes including,

but not limited to, zoning consistency, regulatory compliance, and eligibility for state or federal

funding.

     (d) A municipality may be granted one extension pursuant to this section.

     (e) The division may issue guidance or procedures necessary to implement the provisions

of this section.

     SECTION 2. This act shall take effect upon passage.

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EXPLANATION

BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL

OF

A N   A C T

RELATING TO TOWNS AND CITIES -- RHODE ISLAND COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING

AND LAND USE ACT

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     This act would authorize municipalities to request a one-time, state-approved extension of

the deadline for updating their comprehensive plans, provided the municipality demonstrates active

engagement in the update process, and to ensure that the existing comprehensive plan remains in

effect during the extension period.

     This act would take effect upon passage.

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