PROVIDENCE, RI – On April 16th, Governor Dan McKee is introducing a budget amendment aimed at implementing the key recommendations put forward by the Rhode Island Department of Housing in its Housing Organizational Plan Report, submitted to the General Assembly on December 31, 2024. These proposed legislative changes are designed to streamline the state's housing governance structure, optimize resources, and enhance coordination across agencies.

“By introducing this budget amendment, in collaboration with the Department of Housing, we are taking a critical step toward creating a more efficient and unified housing governance structure,” said Governor McKee. “These changes will ensure that state resources are aligned and that agencies are working together more efficiently to address the urgent housing needs of our State. This is about providing real, lasting solutions for Rhode Islanders, and I am committed to making them a reality.”

The budget amendment includes provisions to centralize policy and strategic planning within the Department of Housing, improve funding mechanisms, and establish direct leadership connections with key entities, including RIHousing, the Interagency Council on Homelessness, and a newly created Interagency Council on Housing Production and Preservation. These changes are intended to align efforts, ensure accountability, and facilitate more efficient responses to the housing needs of Rhode Island’s communities.

“The state’s housing challenges require a unified and coordinated approach,” said Secretary of Housing Deborah Goddard. “By implementing these structural changes, we can ensure that the state’s resources are being used effectively, and that we are making measurable progress in addressing the housing needs of Rhode Islanders.”

The proposed legislative changes will establish a more integrated framework for housing policy and execution, driving collaboration between the Department of Housing and other agencies. This framework is expected to produce significant, long-term benefits for housing, homelessness, and community development efforts across the state.

For further information and to read the full report, visit Housing Governance Report 2024 | Department of Housing