The bill amends sections 11-37.1-6 and 11-37.1-16 of the General Laws in Chapter 11-37.1, titled "Sexual Offender Registration and Community Notification." It introduces changes to the way the Sex Offender Board of Review assesses the risk level of sexual offenders. The bill allows the Board to use a validated risk assessment instrument where available, and in cases where such an instrument does not exist, the Board is authorized to employ a structured professional judgment (SPJ) approach. This approach involves evaluating commonly employed risk variables, both static and dynamic, along with all other available information, to determine the offender's risk level. The bill also specifies that the state has the burden of going forward in proceedings under this chapter by presenting a prima facie case justifying the proposed level and manner of notification.

Additionally, the bill removes the requirement that a validated risk assessment tool must be used to determine the risk of re-offense and instead allows the Board to review and assess risk using materials approved by the parole board. The bill also clarifies the responsibilities of various state agencies and the process for the court to make determinations regarding sexually violent predators. It ensures that the Board has access to all relevant records and information, which must remain confidential except when disclosed to the sentencing court. The bill would take effect upon passage and aims to align the risk assessment process with industry standards.