The bill amends Chapter 9-9 of the General Laws, specifically Sections 9-9-1 and 9-9-1.1, which pertain to "Jury Lists" and the qualifications for jury service. The amendments include the addition of individuals receiving public assistance benefits to the list of those who are liable to serve as jurors. This new category of individuals is added alongside existing categories such as registered voters, licensed drivers, holders of Rhode Island identification cards, state income tax filers, and recipients of unemployment compensation. The bill requires the Department of Human Services to forward the names of individuals receiving public assistance benefits to the jury commissioner on a yearly basis, similar to the existing requirements for other departments.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies that a person is qualified to serve as a juror if they meet the criteria of being a U.S. citizen, a resident of Rhode Island, at least 18 years of age, able to understand and participate in court proceedings, and physically and mentally capable of performing juror duties. It also maintains that individuals with disabilities should not be disqualified solely on the basis of their disability and that reasonable accommodations should be made to allow them to serve as jurors. The bill takes effect upon passage and aims to ensure that jury lists are inclusive of individuals receiving public assistance benefits.