The bill amends Section 11-32-2 of the General Laws in Chapter 11-32, titled "Obstructing Justice," to establish that knowingly making a false report of a crime or official misconduct is a misdemeanor. The new language specifies that this includes false statements made either orally or in writing regarding crimes, as well as formal complaints of misconduct against law enforcement personnel and emergency services officials.

The penalties for such actions include being deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and being liable for any damages sustained as a result of the false report.

Additionally, the bill clarifies definitions related to law enforcement and emergency personnel, defining "law enforcement" to include permanently employed city or town police officers, state police officers, public safety officers, sheriffs, and capitol police officers, and defining "emergency personnel" to include emergency services officials, first aid, emergency medical technicians and personnel, fire safety officials, and hospital staff.

This act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
814: 11-32-2