R.I. Gen. Laws ch. 42-87 § 42-87-4
Civil liability
Operative Text
(a) Any person with a disability who is the victim of discrimination prohibited by this chapter may bring an action in the superior court against the person or entity causing the discrimination for equitable relief, compensatory and/or punitive damages or for any other relief that the court deems appropriate. (b) No person with a disability whose action for discrimination is otherwise within the jurisdiction of the commission for human rights under chapter 5 of title 28, chapter 24 of title 11, or chapter 37 of title 34 may bring an action under this section, unless the commission for human rights has failed to act upon that person's complaint within sixty (60) days of filing, or the commission has issued a final order on the complaint.
Rhode Island General Laws § 42-87-4 establishes a civil remedy for people with disabilities who experience discrimination covered by this chapter. Such individuals may sue in superior court for equitable relief, compensatory damages, punitive damages, or other court-determined remedies. However, if the discrimination claim also falls under the jurisdiction of the Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights, a person generally must first allow that agency at least 60 days to act on a filed complaint—or wait for a final order—before pursuing a court action under this section.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers should be aware that § 42-87-4 exposes those who engage in disability discrimination to civil liability in Rhode Island Superior Court, including the possibility of punitive damages. Compliant operators maintain clear, documented policies that ensure equal treatment of applicants and residents with disabilities under this chapter. Understanding the interplay between this provision and the Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights process is part of responsible property management.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Under § 42-87-4, Rhode Island tenants with disabilities who experience discrimination prohibited by this chapter have the right to seek relief in superior court, including compensatory and punitive damages. If the claim also falls within the jurisdiction of the Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights—which handles complaints under related chapters of state law—a tenant generally must file with that commission and either wait 60 days without agency action or receive a final order before filing a court case under this section. Tenant-rights organizations and legal aid offices can help individuals understand which enforcement path applies to their circumstances.
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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