Legislation

Legislation sought to address wage discrimination in Rhode Island by making it easier for individuals facing wage differentials to file a civil action against their employer, during which it would be up to the employer to demonstrate that the wage gap was on the basis of something other than sex.

Important legislation ensuring children in DCYF care are free from discrimination is headed to the Governor’s desk.

The ACLU testified before the House and Senate Judiciary committees in opposition to legislation eliminating the notice requirement before an individual’s name can be included on a list of persons owing overdue court fees.

In March, the ACLU testified before the House Corporations committee in opposition to legislation sanctioning the use of automated license plate readers (ALPRs) by the Department of Public Safety.

Individuals suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) – particularly veterans – have found that marijuana use helps ease symptoms and allow for relief. Yet, in Rhode Island, medical marijuana is not a qualifying reason to obtain and use medical marijuana.

Going far beyond what is required under the federal Affordable Care Act, the Article mandates a number of health plans be made available on the health exchange that do not cover abortion services, allowing employers to choose the level of reproductive care their employees may obtain.

Under state law, municipalities can charge no more than $500 for violations of municipal ordinances that do not rise to the level of criminal offenses. Under legislation passed by the Senate in June that number could have quadrupled.

While an increasing amount of business is conducted online, becoming a registered voter or changing your registration in Rhode Island still has to be done in person or through the mail. Legislation sought to change that by allowing for electronic voter registration.

In May, the Senate approved legislation prohibiting police from searching juveniles and pedestrians without probable cause or reasonable suspicion of criminal activity.