The proposed bill, titled "The Freedom to Read Act," introduces a new chapter to Title 29 of the General Laws, emphasizing the freedom to read as a fundamental human right protected by the First Amendment and the Rhode Island Constitution. It defines key terms such as "censorship," "library material," and "librarian," and establishes a policy against the censorship of library materials based on content disagreement. The bill mandates the chief of library services to create a model policy for public library collections that promotes free access to information and prohibits censorship, requiring governing bodies of public libraries to adopt this policy to ensure diverse viewpoints are represented in library collections.

Additionally, the bill enhances regulations for both public and school libraries by granting librarians discretion in selecting materials and establishing a formal process for reconsideration of library materials. It prohibits the removal of materials based on their origin or views and protects library staff from liability for actions taken in good faith. For school libraries, a model policy will be developed to ensure collections reflect a wide range of viewpoints. The bill also introduces penalties for the distribution of indecent materials to minors, with fines and imprisonment, while providing an affirmative defense for bona fide institutions against such charges. Overall, the legislation aims to safeguard intellectual freedom and promote access to information while upholding community standards.