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 interrogation 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 statement obtained through or utilizing these prohibited tactics shall not form the basis of any further investigative activities, and any evidence obtained as a result of such statements shall be considered tainted and presumed inadmissible in any criminal or juvenile court proceeding for an act that would be a misdemeanor or felony if committed by an adult. The presumption of inadmissibility may be overcome only if the state proves beyond a reasonable doubt that the confession or incriminating statements were given free from any of the prohibited tactics, based on the totality of the circumstances. The burden of proof lies with the state to demonstrate that a statement was made voluntarily and without coercion. The bill emphasizes the state's obligation to prove the voluntariness of a juvenile's statement before it can be introduced as evidence. This legislation is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.