Prohibits a landlord from removing a tenant from any housing accommodation, or attempt such removal or exclusion from possession.

Rhode Island "Just Cause Eviction" Bill

This bill would change the rules around evictions in Rhode Island by requiring landlords to have a specific, legally recognized reason — called "just cause" — before they can remove a tenant from their home. Under current law, landlords in many situations can choose not to renew a lease or ask a tenant to leave without explaining why. This bill would limit that ability by establishing that tenants cannot be removed from their homes unless the landlord can point to a defined, acceptable reason.

The types of reasons that would likely qualify as "just cause" typically include things like a tenant not paying rent, causing significant damage to the property, engaging in illegal activity, or the landlord genuinely needing to move into the unit themselves. Without one of these recognized reasons, a landlord would not be allowed to evict a tenant or otherwise force them out of their home — even when a lease term ends.

This bill directly affects both renters and landlords across Rhode Island. For tenants, it would provide greater housing stability and protection against being displaced without a clear reason. For landlords, it would mean less flexibility in deciding when and whether to end a tenancy, and they would need to document and justify eviction decisions more formally than may currently be required.

As of now, the bill has been referred to the House Judiciary Committee and is scheduled for a hearing in March 2026. The committee has recommended it be held for further study, meaning it has not yet moved forward toward a full vote.