RI bill would let abuse survivors break rental leases for safety

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Two Rhode Island lawmakers have introduced legislation that would allow survivors of abuse to terminate rental leases early without financial penalties if they need to leave for their safety.

The proposal was introduced by Sen. Melissa Murray and Rep. Karen Alzate with support from the Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

The legislation, 2026-S 2291 and 2026-H 7199, would allow tenants who are survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, or other abuse to exit a lease without being responsible for the remaining rent.

Bill would create legal path for survivors to leave housing

Supporters say the goal is to remove one of the obstacles that can prevent victims from leaving unsafe living situations.

The proposal would allow survivors who fear for their safety, or whose household member has experienced abuse, to end a lease early by providing written verification of the abuse.

That verification could come from a law enforcement official, attorney, health care provider, therapist, social worker, or advocate.

The Rhode Island Department of State would also provide a self certification form that survivors could use at no cost.

Under the bill, tenants would have 30 days to vacate the property and would be entitled to a refund of prepaid rent or any applicable security deposit.

Lock change protections included in proposal

The legislation would also create a process for survivors to request that landlords change the locks on their rental unit to prevent access by an abuser.

If the alleged abuser is a co tenant, the victim would need to provide documentation such as a protective order or a record from law enforcement indicating the individual poses a threat.

Landlords would then be required to make a good faith effort to change the locks within two days or allow the tenant to change them.

The proposal also states that landlords may not provide a new key to the alleged abuser.

Advocates say protections are long overdue

Advocates with the Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence say the measure would help create a clear process for survivors seeking to escape dangerous situations.

They note that many other states already have similar laws in place.

Supporters say the legislation would bring Rhode Island in line with most states in the region, including Massachusetts, which already provides legal protections that allow abuse survivors to end leases early.

The bills have been referred to the Judiciary committees in both chambers of the Rhode Island General Assembly for consideration.