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RI S2137

Bill

Status

Introduced

1/16/2026

Primary Sponsor

Jacob Bissaillon

Click for details

Origin

Senate

2026 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Prohibits police officers from handcuffing preadjudicated children 12 years of age or under at initial contact, with exceptions for public safety or when the child is using or threatening physical force against an officer

  • Bars arrest or delinquency adjudication of children 12 and under unless probable cause exists that the child committed a felony offense punishable by up to life imprisonment

  • Amends two sections of Rhode Island General Laws: Section 14-1-25 (Arrest of juveniles without warrant) and Section 14-1-26.1 (Temporary custody of status and non-offenders)

  • Takes effect immediately upon passage

Legislative Description

Prohibits handcuffing children twelve (12) or under at initial police contact unless needed for public safety or if the child is using or threatening physical force against an officer.

Delinquent And Dependent Children

Last Action

Introduced, referred to Senate Judiciary

1/16/2026

Committee Referrals

Judiciary1/16/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available