Rhode Island Authorizes Portsmouth to Modify Local Property Tax Classification

The Rhode Island legislature amended Section 44-5-11.8 of the General Laws, authorizing the Town of Portsmouth to adopt a property tax classification plan beginning with assessments on or after Dec. 31, 2026. The amendment permits the Portsmouth town’s council to adopt, repeal, or modify the tax classification plan for any tax year thereafter, notwithstanding the general classification restrictions applicable to other municipalities. The law took effect upon passage. [S.B. 2577, enacted 05/06/26]