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RI H7386
Joint Resolution
Status
1/28/2026
Primary Sponsor
David Place
Click for details
AI Summary
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Proposes a constitutional amendment adding Section 25 to Article I of the Rhode Island Constitution, establishing jury nullification as a proper criminal trial defense argument
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Criminal defendants would have the right to argue that juries should consider whether the charged law is morally repugnant, outdated, unfair to citizens, or unconstitutional—not just the facts and law
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Requires approval by majority vote in both houses of the General Assembly, then submission to voters at the next statewide general election
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Amendment would take effect January 1, 2028, if approved by voters
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Secretary of State must publish the proposition in state newspapers prior to the election and include it in voting warrants and notices
Legislative Description
JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION -- JURY NULLIFICATION AS PROPER TRIAL DEFENSE ARGUMENT (Proposes to the voters a constitutional amendment which would allow a criminal defendant to argue jury nullification as a defense.)
Last Action
Introduced, referred to House State Government & Elections
1/28/2026