STATE HOUSE – The General Assembly today passed legislation sponsored by Senate Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies Chairwoman Victoria Gu that would enable municipalities to allow for the use of co-housing arrangements as energy-efficient, low-cost housing options.  The bills now head to the governor for consideration.

            The developments would be similar to dorms, in which there are common spaces, amenities and facilities, but residents would have separate private bedrooms.

            The legislation is part of House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi’s (D-Dist. 23, Warwick) package of legislation regarding housing issues, his fifth comprehensive suite of housing bills since becoming Speaker in 2021.

            "This bill will expand Rhode Island’s housing options, particularly for young adults and seniors. Residents in cohousing and cooperative communities across the United States frequently cite increased social interaction and a sense of belonging as major benefits. The architectural design encourages socialization, which helps reduce social isolation,” said Chairwoman Gu (D-Dist. 38, Westerly, Charlestown, South Kingstown).

            The legislation (2025-S 1085) would add a definition for “co-living housing” to the zoning ordinance provisions of the General Laws and would include such housing as a special provision to be included in a zoning ordinance.

            This housing model has been adopted by other states as a cost-effective option to address the housing crisis.