The bill amends Section 14-1-5 of the General Laws in Chapter 14-1, which pertains to "Proceedings in Family Court." It introduces new legal language that establishes exclusive original jurisdiction for the Family Court over various proceedings involving children, including those who are delinquent, wayward, dependent, neglected, or mentally disabled, as well as matters concerning adoption and paternity. Notably, it deletes a previous provision related to the court's jurisdiction.

Additionally, the bill creates a framework for concurrent jurisdiction between the Rhode Island Family Court and federal courts regarding cases involving minors who allegedly commit crimes on military installations. This concurrent jurisdiction is contingent upon the waiver of jurisdiction by the United States Attorney or federal court and requires that the violation of federal law also constitutes a crime under state law. The bill aims to streamline the adjudication process for such cases and will take effect upon passage.