Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H6408

Introduced
6/11/25  
Refer
6/11/25  
Report Pass
6/16/25  
Engrossed
6/18/25  

Caption

Authorizes the town of Smithfield to establish a juvenile hearing board.

Impact

The establishment of a juvenile hearing board in Smithfield under H6408 is intended to enhance the ability of local authorities to manage juvenile justice issues effectively. By allowing this additional layer of governance, the bill could lead to better outcomes for youths involved in the justice system, as it permits more focused attention to local needs and conditions. This local control can result in interventions that are more appropriately aligned with community standards and resources.

Summary

House Bill H6408 introduces a significant change in the local governance framework by authorizing the town of Smithfield to establish a juvenile hearing board. This new local authority allows for a dedicated body that can handle juvenile cases, reflecting a move towards more localized decision-making in juvenile justice. The bill aims to provide Smithfield with the power to bring decisions regarding juvenile matters closer to the community, fostering a more tailored approach to youth rehabilitation and justice.

Contention

Although the bill provides a framework for local governance, it may also raise questions about consistency in juvenile justice across the state. Critics may argue that varying standards and procedures from one locality to another could lead to disparities in how juveniles are treated based on their location. Supporters, however, argue that local control is essential for addressing the unique challenges faced by communities in managing juvenile justice effectively. The balance between state oversight and local authority will likely be a point of contention in discussions surrounding the bill.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H7371

Gives statewide juvenile hearing boards the authority to refer a juvenile offender to a rehabilitative driving course, as part of a disposition of an offense before the board. The order may be enforced by the traffic tribunal.

RI S2200

Gives statewide juvenile hearing boards the authority to refer a juvenile offender to a rehabilitative driving course, as part of a disposition of an offense before the board. The order may be enforced by the traffic tribunal.

RI H8191

Removes the exemption from taxation granted to Bryant University located in Smithfield, RI subjecting the university to full taxation unless, the university and the town of Smithfield reach an agreement on payment in lieu of taxes on or before 6/30/24.

RI S3031

Removes the exemption from taxation granted to Bryant University located in Smithfield, RI subjecting the university to full taxation unless, the university and the town of Smithfield reach an agreement on payment in lieu of taxes on or before 6/30/24.

RI H8028

Establishes a municipal court within the town of Foster.

RI S2996

Establishes a municipal court within the town of Foster.

RI H7657

Permits Smithfield to enact ordinances that would allow the animal control officer to issue citations which could be paid my mail and to prescribe penalties for violations of the town's ordinances regulating dogs.

RI S2539

Permits Smithfield to enact ordinances that would allow the animal control officer to issue citations which could be paid my mail and to prescribe penalties for violations of the town's ordinances regulating dogs.

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 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

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.