Legislation

Rhode Island has grappled for a number of years with several election issues, including questions of when and how recounts can be conducted, how votes are counted, and even how the rules regarding elections are made.

While a majority of the states have a process for in-person early voting, Rhode Island’s voters remain restricted to voting on Election Day, although in recent years the General Assembly has expanded the opportunities for absentee voting.

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.