Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S1073

Introduced
5/13/25  

Caption

Makes it unlawful for a person in the custody of the department of corrections to use any force or weapon to resist a lawful request or directive.

Impact

The implications of S1073 on state laws involve a notable shift in the legal framework surrounding arrests and interactions with corrections officers. By explicitly prohibiting the use of force against lawful directives, the bill seeks to reduce the likelihood of confrontations between inmates and correctional staff. This could result in a more stable environment within correctional facilities, potentially reflecting positively on overall public safety. Furthermore, the legislation carries penalties for violations, including fines and imprisonment, which serves as a deterrent for non-compliance.

Summary

Bill S1073 introduces a significant amendment to the General Laws of Rhode Island regarding criminal procedure, specifically focused on the conduct of individuals in custody of the Department of Corrections. This legislation establishes that it is unlawful for individuals in such custody to use any force or weapons in resisting lawful directives given by corrections officers. The aim of this bill is to enhance the safety and efficacy of law enforcement and correctional procedures when dealing with inmates, thereby minimizing situations that could escalate into violence.

Contention

The potential points of contention surrounding S1073 likely center on concerns related to the balance of power between corrections officers and inmates. Civil rights advocates may argue that such laws could disproportionately impact vulnerable populations within the correctional system, raising concerns about abuse of power and the implications of enforcing compliance through criminal penalties. The conversation around the bill may also highlight the debate on appropriate measures to ensure safety in corrections versus safeguarding the rights of individuals in custody.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H7070

Requires state use actual residences of persons in government custody for redistricting purposes. Information would be collected by the department of corrections and forwarded to the secretary of state to be utilized for redistricting.

RI S2651

Establishes criteria for the criminal offense of sexual assault when the victim is in the custody of a peace officer and also provides that a person convicted of custodial sexual assault would face imprisonment for not more than three (3) years.

RI H7833

Establishes criteria for the criminal offense of sexual assault when the victim is in the custody of a peace officer and also provides that a person convicted of custodial sexual assault would face imprisonment for not more than three (3) years.

RI S2734

Specifies that it is unlawful for any person under the age of eighteen (18) to possess a firearm.

RI H7829

Specifies that it is unlawful for any person under the age of eighteen (18) to possess a firearm.

RI S0625

Corrections Department

RI H7751

Punishes as felony act of unlawfully discharging a firearm or incendiary or explosive substance or device with the intent to hit or fire into any unoccupied dwelling, building, other structure or ship, automobile or other conveyance.

RI S2804

Allows correctional industries to conduct business for goods or services with any 501(c)(3) and would require customers of correctional industries to pay fifty present (50%) of an order upon the placement of the order.

RI H7668

Allows correctional industries to conduct business for goods or services with any 501(c)(3) and would require customers of correctional industries to pay fifty present (50%) of an order upon the placement of the order.

RI S2653

Bans the possession, sale, and transfer of assault weapons. Possession of assault weapons owned on the effective date of this act to be "grandfathered". Violations are punishable by a fine or imprisonment.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.