The bill amends Chapter 14-1 of the General Laws by introducing a new section, 14-1-30.3, which establishes strict guidelines for the custodial interrogation of juveniles by peace officers, including school resource officers. It explicitly prohibits the use of threats, physical harm, deprivation, deception, coercion, or psychologically manipulative tactics during such interrogations. The bill defines key terms related to these prohibited tactics, including "coercion," "deception," "deprivation," and "psychologically manipulative interrogation tactics," providing clarity on what constitutes unacceptable behavior during the interrogation process.

Additionally, any statements obtained through these prohibited methods shall not form the basis of any further investigative activities and will be presumed inadmissible as evidence against the juvenile in any criminal or juvenile court proceedings for acts that would be considered misdemeanors or felonies if committed by an adult. The presumption of inadmissibility can only be overcome if the state proves beyond a reasonable doubt that the statements were given voluntarily and free from any of the prohibited tactics, based on the totality of the circumstances. The burden of proof lies with the state to demonstrate the voluntariness of the statements, and objections regarding the state's failure to call material witnesses on this issue must be made in the trial court. This act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.