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 residence from one year to six months. This change means that a plaintiff must be a domiciled inhabitant of the state and have resided there for at least six months before filing for divorce. Additionally, if the defendant has also been a domiciled inhabitant for the same period and is served with process, the plaintiff's residency requirement is considered satisfied.

The bill also clarifies that the domicile and residence 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 language in the bill ensures that terms referring to the masculine gender are inclusive of all genders. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
287: 15-5-12