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RI S2979

Joint Resolution

Status

Introduced

3/4/2026

Primary Sponsor

Mark McKenney

Click for details

Origin

Senate

2026 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Proposes a constitutional amendment requiring candidates for governor, lieutenant governor, secretary of state, attorney general, and general treasurer to have been Rhode Island residents and registered voters for at least 2 continuous years prior to taking office

  • Adds Section 9 to Article III ("Of Qualification for Office") of the Rhode Island Constitution, effective January 1, 2027

  • Requires approval by a majority of all elected members in both houses of the General Assembly before submission to voters

  • Places the amendment on the ballot at the next statewide general election for voter approval or rejection

  • Directs the Secretary of State to publish the proposed amendment in state newspapers prior to the election

Legislative Description

JOINT RESOLUTION APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION -- OF QUALIFICATION FOR OFFICE (Proposes a state constitutional amendment to provide no person could hold office as general officer unless that person was a resident and a registered voter in the State of Rhode Island for at least 2 years, continuously, prior to taking office.)

Last Action

Introduced, referred to Senate Judiciary

3/4/2026

Committee Referrals

Judiciary3/4/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available