The bill amends Section 15-5-12 of the General Laws in Chapter 15-5, which pertains to divorce and separation, by changing the residency requirement for filing a divorce complaint in Rhode Island. Specifically, it reduces the required period of domicile and residence from one year to six months. This change means that a plaintiff must have been a domiciled inhabitant of the state for at least six months before filing for divorce. Additionally, if the defendant also meets this six-month requirement and is served with process, the plaintiff's residency requirement is considered satisfied.

The bill also clarifies that the residence and domicile of individuals who are members of the armed forces or the merchant marine, or who are absent due to military operations, will continue to be recognized during their service and for 30 days afterward. Furthermore, the bill includes provisions for the interpretation of gender-specific language and expands the definition of military service to include various organizations. The act will take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5129: 15-5-12