S.2160

Prohibits noncompete agreements except for noncompete agreements between a seller and buyer of a business; creates civil action for an employer for the violation of an agreement by employee regarding disclosure or wrongful utilization of trade secrets.

Chamber Passed·3/31/26
Introduced Text

Rhode Island S2160 prohibits noncompete agreements except for those between a seller and buyer of a business and creates a civil action for employers.

Rhode Island S2160 amends the Rhode Island Noncompetition Agreement Act to prohibit noncompete agreements except for those between a seller and buyer of a business. The bill also creates a civil action for employers against employees who violate noncompete agreements by disclosing or wrongfully utilizing trade secrets. Noncompete agreements are void and unenforceable against employees with annualized earnings below $125,000, students, those under 18, and low-wage employees. Employers can seek injunctive relief, compensatory damages, punitive damages, attorneys' fees, and costs for violations.

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Where it stands

Last
Passed the Senate · 32–4 · Mar 31
Current
Labor Committee
Next
Session adjourned — paused until it reconvenes

Sponsors

D
1
0
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Roll Call Votes

32 Yea

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4 Nay

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2 Not Voting

DD

Calendar

Mar 26

12:00 AM

Senate Judiciary Consideration

Mar 12

12:00 AM

Senate Judiciary Hearing

History

Apr 1

House

Referred to House Labor

Mar 31

Senate

Senate read and passed

Mar 27

Senate

Placed on Senate Calendar (03/31/2026)