The bill amends Section 16-2-17 of the General Laws in Chapter 16-2, which pertains to the right to a safe school environment. It introduces the concept of "restorative justice practices" as part of the corrective and rehabilitative measures for disruptive students. The bill allows for the suspension of students in grades six and above if they are found guilty of conduct that impedes learning or threatens the safety of the school community. It also specifies that out-of-school suspensions for students in preschool through fifth grade can only be issued after consultation with a mental health professional and when the student's behavior presents a physical threat that cannot be mitigated by other interventions.

Additionally, the bill mandates that school committees or principals may issue out-of-school suspensions for violations involving alcohol, drugs, or weapons on a case-by-case basis, in accordance with § 16-21-21.1. It also requires school districts to annually review discipline data for disparities based on race, ethnicity, or disability status and to report actions taken to address any disparities. The Rhode Island Department of Education, in coordination with the Rhode Island Office of the Attorney General, must collect and publish data on school resource officers, use of force, arrests, referrals to law enforcement, and other disciplinary actions, disaggregated by various student demographics. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
230: 16-2-17