Rhode Island House Bill H5892

Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

• 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
• Passed: 6/27/25

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.