The proposed bill amends Title 42 of the General Laws by adding Chapter 56.4, which establishes regulations regarding the maximum workday and overtime compensation for peace officers employed by the State of Rhode Island. The bill defines key terms such as "employee," "employer," and "unforeseeable emergent circumstance," and stipulates that peace officers cannot be required to work beyond a predetermined shift of eight or ten hours, depending on their title. Overtime work may only be mandated in cases of unforeseeable emergent circumstances, and employees who refuse such overtime cannot face discrimination or adverse employment actions. The bill also emphasizes that voluntary overtime is not restricted and outlines the conditions under which overtime can be required.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for penalties in the event of violations, mandating that the state pay employees double time and a half for required overtime work that contravenes the established regulations. It clarifies that the new provisions do not negate any existing rights or benefits under collective bargaining agreements and includes a severability clause to ensure that if any part of the chapter is deemed invalid, the remainder remains effective. The act is set to take effect upon passage.