Rhode Island 2024 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7065

Introduced
1/5/24  
Refer
1/5/24  
Report Pass
5/29/24  
Engrossed
6/5/24  
Engrossed
6/11/24  

Caption

Extends the current provisions relative to certain rights of innkeepers and eliminates the sunsetting of such sections thereby preserving the law as it currently exists.

Impact

The passing of H7065 will have a notable impact on state laws relevant to hotel management and guest rights. By codifying the rights of innkeepers to remove disruptive or unlawful guests, the bill could help improve the operational environment for hotels and safeguard other patrons and employees from potential harm. The changes would not only preserve the current legal framework but also reinforce the enforcement of guest conduct standards to protect the integrity of the hospitality industry in Rhode Island. The introduction of a clear guideline on refusal of service could simplify legal proceedings surrounding guest removals.

Summary

House Bill H7065 aims to extend existing provisions concerning the rights of innkeepers, particularly highlighting the grounds under which an innkeeper can eject or refuse service to guests. The bill specifically outlines various reasons for which a guest can be removed, such as refusing to pay for services, causing public disturbances, or violating hotel rules. By eliminating the sunsetting of these provisions, the law seeks to ensure that these rights remain in effect well beyond their initial period. The bill is intended to provide clarity and legal support to hotel operators regarding the management of their establishments and relationships with guests.

Sentiment

The sentiment around bill H7065 appears largely supportive among hotel industry representatives, who argue that extended rights for innkeepers enhance safety and security for both hotels and their guests. However, there could be concerns raised by civil rights advocates regarding possible misuse of these provisions leading to discrimination against certain individuals under the guise of enforcing hotel rules. Thus, while the bill is viewed positively by many in the hospitality sector, it has the potential to diverge into contentious discussions regarding guest treatment policies.

Contention

Some of the points of contention regarding H7065 could revolve around the definitions and interpretations of 'obvious intoxication' or 'public disturbance,' which may lead to disputes about enforcement practices. The language of the bill allows for subjective judgments by innkeepers, which could be contested by guests or advocacy groups. Furthermore, anti-discrimination clauses included in the bill might face scrutiny to ensure they are adequately enforced and prevent wrongful ejections based on race, gender, or other protected classifications, making the clarity and fairness of enforcement a potential debate point.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S1074

Authorizing The Town Of North Smithfield To Finance The Development And Construction Of A New Police Station Or The Renovation, Improvement, Alteration And Repair Of An Existing Building To Be Used As A Police Station, As Determined By The Town Council And The Furnishing And Equipping Thereof By The Issue Of Not More Than $18,000,000 Of Bonds And/or Notes Therefor

RI H6451

Authorizing The Town Of North Smithfield To Finance The Development And Construction Of A New Police Station Or The Renovation, Improvement, Alteration And Repair Of An Existing Building To Be Used As A Police Station, As Determined By The Town Council And The Furnishing And Equipping Thereof By The Issue Of Not More Than $18,000,000 Of Bonds And/or Notes Therefor

RI H5499

Anti-bullying Bill Of Rights Act

RI H5565

Hotels And Public Places

RI H5567

Law Enforcement Officers' Bill Of Rights

RI S0360

Law Enforcement Officers' Bill Of Rights

RI S0296

Hotels And Public Places

RI H5884

Hotels And Public Places

RI H5863

General Provisions

RI S0703

General Provisions

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