Rhode Island Senate Advances Casino Smoking Ban, Providence Tax Levy Bill

Rhode Island lawmakers are advancing several significant bills affecting the state’s casinos, housing, and Providence’s budget. The Senate Committee on Labor & Gaming unanimously approved legislation to end the indoor smoking exemption at the state’s two casinos starting in 2027, with provisions allowing enclosed smoking bars to remain. Bally’s Corporation opposes the bill, warning of potential losses in tax revenue. Meanwhile, legislation aimed at reforming Providence's “8-Law” seeks to incentivize affordable housing by clarifying income thresholds and extending tax relief to residential units converted from commercial buildings, addressing the city's surplus of vacant office spaces. Additionally, Providence Mayor Brett Smiley’s critical budget proposal to exceed the state-mandated 4% tax levy cap to cover a $15 million school funding settlement moved forward, with the Senate Finance Committee voting 8-1 to advance the bill despite concerns about the impact on homeowners and renters. These legislative efforts reflect ongoing attempts to balance public health, housing affordability, and fiscal responsibility in Rhode Island.