Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H5892

Introduced
2/28/25  
Refer
2/28/25  
Report Pass
4/1/25  
Engrossed
4/8/25  
Refer
5/2/25  
Report Pass
6/18/25  
Engrossed
6/20/25  
Engrossed
6/20/25  

Caption

Protects the personal information of judicial officers and their immediate family members who serve or have served the RI unified judicial system, as well as judicial officers who reside in RI and who serve or have served in the federal courts.

Impact

The legislation is expected to bring about changes in the administration of personal data across various government agencies. Upon receipt of a notice from a protected individual, agencies are obligated to treat that personal information as confidential and remove it from public access within a specified timeframe. This act not only restricts the dissemination of sensitive data but also imposes civil liabilities on entities that fail to comply with the new regulations, thus providing further assurance to judicial officers regarding the security of their personal information.

Summary

House Bill H5892 aims to safeguard the personal information of judicial officers, former and current, as well as their immediate family members within the State of Rhode Island. The bill establishes clear definitions of who constitutes a 'protected individual' and the types of personal information that must be safeguarded, including social security numbers and home addresses. This act would prevent any state, county, or municipal entities from publicly displaying or posting any protected personal information without prior written consent, marking a significant step towards enhancing security for judicial personnel and their families.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding H5892 appears to be generally supportive among legislators, particularly in the context of heightened discussions about privacy and security for public officials. Advocates for the bill assert that protecting the personal information of judicial officers is crucial for their safety and the integrity of the judicial system as a whole. However, concerns may arise about the implications of such privacy measures on transparency, as some community members may worry that it could hinder the public's access to information concerning individuals in power.

Contention

Notably, the bill presents potential points of contention regarding its implementation and effects on transparency within the justice system. While the intent is to protect judicial officers and their families, some critics might argue that overly stringent privacy measures could obstruct public knowledge about judicial activities and decisions. The fine balance between ensuring safety and maintaining open government principles will continue to be a critical topic of discussion as the bill progresses.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H7758

Amends the definition of public record to exempt from public disclosure the city or town of residence of the justices, judges, and magistrates of the unified judicial system.

RI S2915

Amends the definition of public record to exempt from public disclosure the city or town of residence of the justices, judges, and magistrates of the unified judicial system.

RI S3134

Allows members of the Rhode Island judiciary and certain employees of the judiciary recommended by the chief justice to be issued a driver's license that contains the applicant's official business address in lieu of a residence address.

RI H7578

Allows members of the Rhode Island judiciary and their staff to be issued a driver's license that contains the applicant's official business address in lieu of a residence address.

RI H7992

Allows retired state employees who worked as certified or qualified court interpreter to be employed or re-employed for a limited period of time in a given year to provide court interpretation services within the unified judicial system.

RI S2905

Allows retired state employees who worked as certified or qualified court interpreter to be employed or re-employed for a limited period of time in a given year to provide court interpretation services within the unified judicial system.

RI H7254

Allows members of retirement systems who also served in the national guard or reserves to purchase retirement services credits.

RI S2118

Requires individuals seeking a judicial nomination to reapply to JNC every 5 years and make those individuals selected as finalists, eligible only for the court in which they applied and were chosen during the five years following their selection.

RI H7306

Requires individuals seeking a judicial nomination to reapply to JNC every 5 years and make those individuals selected as finalists, eligible only for the court in which they applied and were chosen during the five years following their selection.

RI S0673

Senate Resolution Respectfully Requesting The Rhode Island Congressional Delegation To Urge The Under Secretary Of Defense For Personnel And Readiness To Protect Pharmacy Access For Those Who Serve Or Have Served In The Armed Forces

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