RI
Rhode Island Senate Bill S0375

Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S0375

Introduced
2/26/25  

Caption

Prohibits the compelled production of a private key as it relates to a digital asset, digital identity or other interest or right.

Impact

The implications of S0375 on state laws could be substantial, marking a shift towards greater protection for individuals dealing with digital assets. If enacted, the bill would amend existing laws within the state's governance on digital affairs, establishing a legal framework that reinforces an individual's right to keep their private keys secure. The potential effects include preventing unauthorized access to digital assets and creating barriers for law enforcement or other entities attempting to compel access without proper justification or when public key alternatives are available.

Summary

Senate Bill S0375, introduced in January 2025, addresses the legal framework surrounding digital assets and the concept of private keys. This bill intends to prohibit the compelled production of a private key that is essential for accessing digital assets, thereby providing individuals with the ability to maintain control over their digital identities and assets. The legislation is aimed at protecting individuals from being forced to disclose their private keys in various legal proceedings, which could pose a significant risk to their digital security and privacy rights.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise around the exceptions provided within the legislation. While the bill seeks to safeguard individual rights, it includes provisions for lawful proceedings where the production of private keys may still be required if public keys are deemed insufficient for specific inquiries. This aspect has raised concerns among advocates for privacy and digital security, who fear that any exceptions could undermine the bill's main objective. A thorough examination of how the bill balances individual rights against governmental needs in various legal contexts will be crucial for its future discussions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S2702

Prohibits the compelled production of a private key as it relates to a digital asset, digital identity or other interest or right.

RI H7785

Prohibits the compelled production of a private key as it relates to a digital asset, digital identity or other interest or right.

RI H7351

Establishes an economic growth blockchain act, which would regulate virtual and digital assets, and establish depository banks for these purposes.

RI H7095

Establishes a digital electronics right to repair, which would allow for digital electronic equipment and parts that are sold in this state on or after January 1, 2025, to be repaired at an independent repair provider.

RI S3107

Establishes a digital electronics right to repair, which would allow for digital electronic equipment and parts that are sold in this state on or after January 1, 2025, to be repaired at an independent repair provider.

RI H8015

Prohibits the release of customers personal information compiled by the department of motor vehicles to any private company, nonprofit organization or third-party vendor.

RI H7824

Requires DCYF to place a locked suggestion box in its facilities and create a digitally secured suggestion box into which residents may place comments and/or concerns to be addressed by the Rhode Island Child Advocate.

RI H7089

Requires that a business entity that is selling goods or services at retail offering a digital coupon to a consumer would also have to offer a paper coupon of identical value.

RI H7787

Creates the Rhode Island Data Transparency and Privacy Protect Act for data privacy protections for the personal data of the citizens of Rhode Island.

RI S2500

Creates the Rhode Island Data Transparency and Privacy Protect Act for data privacy protections for the personal data of the citizens of Rhode Island.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.