The bill amends Section 12-29-5 of the General Laws in Chapter 12-29, known as the "Domestic Violence Prevention Act." It introduces new provisions regarding the disposition of domestic violence cases. One significant change is the insertion of language that mandates individuals convicted of or placed on probation for domestic violence offenses to attend a batterer’s intervention program at their own expense. The court may allow servicemembers or veterans to complete a counseling program approved by the Veterans’ Administration. Additionally, the bill specifies that individuals convicted or pleading nolo contendere to domestic violence offenses must pay a $125 assessment, with 80% of the collected funds going to the Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence and 20% deposited as general revenue.

The bill also includes insertions that clarify the penalties for repeat offenses of domestic violence. A second violation, including both prior felony and misdemeanor convictions, will result in imprisonment for not less than ten days and not more than one year. A third or subsequent violation will be treated as a felony with imprisonment for not less than one year and not more than ten years. The bill emphasizes that no jail sentence under this section can be suspended. It also outlines procedures for informing defendants about firearm possession prohibitions following convictions or pleas in domestic violence cases. The act would take effect upon passage and aims to ensure that repeat offenders of domestic violence face felony charges, thereby enhancing the penalties for such crimes.

Statutes affected:
2932: 12-29-5