S.2981

Makes it unnecessary to prove that a person's transmission of electronic communications be for the sole purpose of harassment before being found guilty of cyberstalking or cyberharassment.

Introduced·3/4/26
Introduced Text

Rhode Island S2981 removes the requirement to prove intent to harass for cyberstalking or cyberharassment convictions.

Rhode Island S2981 amends the state's computer crime laws to eliminate the need to prove that electronic communications were sent with the sole purpose of harassment to convict someone of cyberstalking or cyberharassment. This change means that if someone knowingly and willfully engages in a pattern of conduct that seriously alarms, annoys, or bothers another person, they can be found guilty of cyberstalking or cyberharassment regardless of their intent. The act also outlines penalties, including fines and imprisonment, for such offenses.

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  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

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Where it stands

Current
Judiciary Committee
Next
Session adjourned — paused until it reconvenes

Sponsors

DDDDD
5
0
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Roll Call Votes

Senate Committee on Judiciary: Be held for further study

10 Yea

DDDDDDDDRD

0 Nay

Calendar

May 12

12:00 AM

Senate Judiciary Hearing

History

May 12

Senate

Committee recommended measure be held for further study

May 8

Senate

Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration (05/12/2026)

Mar 4

Senate

Introduced, referred to Senate Judiciary