The bill amends Section 11-44-21.1 of the General Laws in Chapter 11-44, which pertains to trespass and vandalism, specifically addressing the issue of graffiti. The amendment changes the penalties for defacing private residences, offices, businesses, commercial property, or public property with graffiti. For the first and second offenses, the penalty is a misdemeanor with a fine not exceeding $1,000 and community service hours increased to a minimum of 40 hours but not exceeding 100 hours, specifically for cleaning and remediating graffiti vandalism on state or local properties. For a third or subsequent offense, the crime is elevated to a felony with potential imprisonment up to two years, a fine up to $2,000, and a requirement to perform a minimum of 40 hours and up to 300 hours of community service for graffiti cleanup.

Additionally, the bill outlines consequences for minors involved in graffiti offenses, including the potential suspension of their driver's license or learner's permit for one year. It also allows the family court to order parents or legal guardians to pay restitution if the minor's actions were a direct result of their neglect to exercise reasonable supervision. The liability for compensation is limited to $10,000. If the restitution order is violated, the individual can be found guilty of contempt, with the possibility of installment payments over a period of up to seven years. The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
139: 11-44-21.1