Requires public auctions by any city or town of real estate or an interest therein to only be done in person and not by electronic or remote procedures unless authorized by court order.

Rhode Island Bill Summary: In-Person Requirements for City/Town Property Auctions

This bill would require that whenever a city or town in Rhode Island sells public real estate or property rights through an auction, that auction must be held in person. Under this proposal, municipalities could not conduct these sales online or through other remote/electronic methods — unless a court specifically approves an exception. In other words, bidders would need to physically show up to participate in a government property auction.

The bill affects Rhode Island municipalities — cities and towns — that sell publicly owned real estate or property interests (such as land, buildings, or rights to property). It also directly affects anyone who might want to bid on such properties, since they would be required to attend in person rather than participating remotely from home or online.

Currently, this bill has been referred to the House Judiciary Committee, which has recommended it be held for further study, meaning it has not yet moved forward in the legislative process. A hearing is scheduled for February 2026. The bill does not address private property auctions — only those conducted by local governments.

The practical effect of this bill, if passed, would be to limit the flexibility municipalities currently have in how they conduct property auctions. Supporters might argue in-person auctions are more transparent and secure, while critics might contend that restricting online options could reduce participation and competition among bidders. As written, the bill is neutral on these considerations and simply sets in-person attendance as the legal default.