R.I. Gen. Laws ch. 34-37 § 34-37-2.1
Right to equal housing opportunities — Age
Operative Text
Whenever in this chapter there shall appear the word "sex" there shall be inserted immediately thereafter the word "age."
Rhode Island General Laws § 34-37-2.1 expands the state's fair housing protections by treating age as a protected characteristic alongside sex throughout Chapter 34-37. In practical effect, any prohibition, requirement, or right that applies on the basis of sex in that chapter applies equally on the basis of age. This means housing providers cannot discriminate against individuals because of their age under the same legal framework that prohibits sex-based discrimination.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 34-37-2.1, compliant housing operators apply the same non-discriminatory standards to applicants and tenants regardless of age as they do regardless of sex. Screening criteria, rental terms, and access to housing-related services are generally evaluated without reference to a person's age. Operators familiar with Rhode Island's fair housing obligations under Chapter 34-37 should review their policies to confirm that age is treated as a protected class in every context where sex is addressed.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 34-37-2.1 gives Rhode Island tenants and housing applicants the right to be free from age-based discrimination on the same legal footing as sex-based discrimination under Chapter 34-37. If a housing provider's conduct appears to single out an individual because of their age — such as refusing to rent, setting different terms, or denying access to housing — that conduct may constitute a violation of this provision. Tenants who believe their rights under § 34-37-2.1 have been violated can explore options such as filing a complaint with a state civil rights or fair housing agency or consulting a tenant-rights organization for guidance.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 15, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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