R.I. Gen. Laws ch. 34-37 § 34-37-2.3
Right to equal housing opportunities — Gender identity or expression
Operative Text
Whenever in this chapter there shall appear the words "sexual orientation" there shall be inserted immediately thereafter the words "gender identity or expression."
Rhode Island General Laws § 34-37-2.3 expands the state's fair housing protections by directing that wherever the term 'sexual orientation' appears in Chapter 34-37, it is automatically read to also include 'gender identity or expression.' In practical effect, this means that the same housing-related protections that apply on the basis of sexual orientation apply equally on the basis of gender identity or expression. The provision functions as a definitional amendment woven throughout the entire chapter rather than a standalone rule.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 34-37-2.3, property owners and managers operating in Rhode Island must treat gender identity or expression as a protected characteristic in every context where sexual orientation is already protected under Chapter 34-37. Compliant operators apply this standard consistently across advertising, tenant screening, lease terms, and all other housing-related decisions. Reviewing internal policies and practices to confirm they reflect this expanded definition is a common step taken by operators seeking to align with the chapter's requirements.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 34-37-2.3 means that Rhode Island's equal housing opportunity law protects you from discrimination based on gender identity or expression in the same way it protects against discrimination based on sexual orientation. If you believe you have experienced housing discrimination on this basis, general enforcement paths include filing a complaint with the Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights, which administers Chapter 34-37, or consulting a tenant-rights organization familiar with state fair housing law. You may also raise a violation of § 34-37-2.3 as a defense or claim in relevant legal proceedings.
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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