The bill proposes amendments to Rhode Island law following recommendations from the "Special Legislative Study Commission Ensuring Racial Equity and Optimizing Health and Safety Laws Affecting Marginalized Individuals." The Commission, which met several times between November 2021 and April 2023, recommended the repeal of certain laws that disproportionately impact marginalized groups, such as women, transgender individuals, and people of color. Specifically, the bill seeks to repeal Section 42-56-20.3(e) of the General Laws, which imposes additional court costs on those convicted of prostitution, and to evaluate the "Loitering for prostitution" statute § 11-34.1-4(a), which has been criticized for being vague and disproportionately enforced against communities of color and transgender people.

The bill includes the insertion of the title "42-56-20.3. Community correctional program for women offenders" and the deletion of subsection (e) under the same section, which outlines the assessment of additional penalties for prostitution-related offenses. Additionally, the bill repeals Section 11-34.1-4 in its entirety, which criminalizes loitering for the purpose of prostitution or other commercial sexual activity. The explanation provided by the Legislative Council states that the act would repeal provisions assessing costs for women in the community corrections program and the crime of loitering for prostitution, with the act taking effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
7452: 42-56-20.3, 11-34.1-4