Rhode Island General Laws Title 45. Towns and Cities § 45-24.2-1. Legislative findings

(1) That there exist, in the various cities and towns numerous dwellings and dwelling premises which are substandard due to dilapidation, deterioration and disrepair of dwellings and dwelling premises, structural defects, uncleanliness, lack of adequate ventilation, light, sanitary, heating, and hot water facilities, overcrowding of dwellings, occupancy of unfit dwellings, and other conditions and defects which increase the hazards of illness, disease, fire, accidents, and other calamities;

(2) That these conditions, singly or in combination, endanger the health, safety, morals, and general welfare of the people of the various cities and towns, and give impetus to the development, continuation, extension, and aggravation of blighted and substandard housing conditions; and

(3) That it is a matter of legislative determination that the establishment of minimum standards for dwellings is essential to the protection of the public health, safety, morals, and general welfare.