PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Protestors and legislative leaders gathered outside the Rhode Island State House Saturday to oppose what was being called the “Eight-Law Bill.” Protestors said that part of House Bill 56-88 would create a 30-year tax break for turning commercial property into hous ing, whether or not those new housing spaces require any affordable units. Providence Mayor Brett Smiley originally introduced the bill. Rep. David Morales said that he and advocates aimed to prevent setting a precedent that could hurt lower income renters or small businesses that use commercial spaces impacted by the bill. “We are saying no to tax breaks for luxury housing,” Morales said. The bill was held for further study by the House Committee on Municipal Government and Housing earlier in March. Categories: News, Providence, Rhode Island ...read more read less