The bill, known as "The Protected Spaces Act," aims to enhance the safety and well-being of Rhode Island's immigrant community by establishing specific protections against federal immigration enforcement within designated locations. It introduces a new chapter, CHAPTER 167, to Title 42 of the General Laws, which defines key terms such as "civil immigration warrant," "federal immigration authority," and "protected locations." The act stipulates that Rhode Island schools, places of worship, health facilities, and public libraries are prohibited from granting access to federal immigration authorities for the purpose of investigating, detaining, apprehending, or arresting individuals for potential violations of federal immigration laws unless a judicial warrant is presented that clearly identifies the individual in question.

Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of maintaining trust between the immigrant community and state and local agencies, asserting that fear of immigration enforcement can hinder access to essential services and negatively impact public safety. The act also includes a severability clause, ensuring that if any provision is deemed invalid, the remaining provisions will still be enforceable. The bill is set to take effect upon passage.