H7037

Prohibits handcuffing children twelve (12) or under at initial police contact unless needed for public safety or if the child is using or threatening physical force against an officer.

Introduced·1/9/26
Introduced Text

Rhode Island H7037 prohibits handcuffing children twelve or under at initial police contact unless for public safety or physical threat to officers.

Rhode Island H7037 amends the state's family court proceedings to prohibit handcuffing children aged twelve or under during initial police contact, except when necessary for public safety or if the child is using or threatening physical force against an officer. This law aims to protect young children from unnecessary restraint during police interactions, ensuring their treatment is appropriate for their age and the circumstances. The changes will take effect immediately upon passage.

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Where it stands

Current
Judiciary Committee
Next
Committee decision

Sponsors

DDDDDDDD
8
2
RR
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Calendar

Apr 16

12:00 AM

House Judiciary Hearing

History

Apr 16

House

Committee recommended measure be held for further study

Apr 10

House

Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration (04/16/2026)

Jan 9

House

Introduced, referred to House Judiciary