Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H6229

Introduced
4/11/25  

Caption

Establishes the Rhode Island state crime laboratory within the department of attorney general.

Impact

The introduction of H6229 is expected to centralize forensic services in Rhode Island, making it easier for law enforcement agencies to access necessary resources and training for crime scene investigation. By establishing a dedicated state laboratory, the bill aims to ensure that the examination of evidence is conducted according to standardized protocols, promoting accuracy and reliability in criminal justice. Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the importance of cooperation between state and local agencies, highlighting the need for comprehensive training and resource sharing to effectively tackle crime-related issues.

Summary

House Bill H6229 establishes the Rhode Island state crime laboratory within the Department of Attorney General, aiming to streamline and enhance the state's capacity for forensic analysis and evidence collection pertaining to criminal investigations. The bill mandates the formation of a commission to oversee the operations, funding, and efficiency of the state crime laboratory. This initiative is intended to improve local and state law enforcement's ability to process and analyze evidence, which can significantly impact the outcomes of criminal investigations and judicial proceedings.

Contention

There may be points of contention surrounding the bill, particularly concerning the allocation of funding and resources to support the new crime laboratory. Critics may argue that such funding could detract from other essential services, while proponents will likely emphasize the necessity of a scientifically advanced and well-coordinated crime lab as vital to enhancing public safety and justice delivery. Additionally, discussions may arise regarding the accountability of the newly established commission and the effectiveness of its oversight in conducting forensic work.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0617

Dictates the length a search warrant involving a tracking device would be valid and provide a process to extend the time frame of the tracking device for good cause.

RI H5438

Dictates the length a search warrant involving a tracking device would be valid and provide a process to extend the time frame of the tracking device for good cause.

RI S0665

Permits hit and run victims suffering serious bodily injury to recover under the crime victim compensation program.

RI H5974

Permits hit and run victims suffering serious bodily injury to recover under the crime victim compensation program.

RI H5359

Requires law enforcement to obtain consent before placing audio or video recorders on the private property of another.

RI H5440

Permits non-sworn public safety officers/security guards at private colleges/universities to detain individuals for no longer than 30 minutes within the campus’s jurisdiction if the officer or guard believes the person committed a criminal offense.

RI H5501

Prohibits the courts from setting cash or surety bail on any misdemeanor offense but permits the court to set reasonable non-monetary conditions of bail to assure the defendant's presence in court as required and to protect the community.

RI S0516

Permits non-sworn public safety officers/security guards at private colleges/universities to detain individuals for no longer than 30 minutes within the campus’s jurisdiction if the officer or guard believes the person committed a criminal offense.

Similar Bills

OK HB1460

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MS HB1612

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RI H6211

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RI S0357

Requires persons convicted of driving under influence or refusal to submit to chemical test, to have an ignition interlock system installed in vehicle as part of sentence and to pay an assessment to pay for the systems for indigent defendants.

OK HB1222

Driving under the influence; requiring certain arrested person make bail before release; effective date.

OK SB882

Driving under the influence; modifying bail provisions related to charges of driving under the influence. Effective date.

OH SB55

Regards operating under the influence of marihuana, OVI evidence

KY HB34

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