The bill amends the "Code of Ethics" in Rhode Island by introducing new definitions and prohibitions related to the conduct of public officials and employees. It adds definitions for "interested person" and "single interested person," clarifying that an "interested person" is someone with a direct financial interest in a decision made by a public official as part of their official duties, and that "single interested person" includes all employees or representatives of an individual, business, organization, or entity.

The bill establishes new restrictions on accepting gifts, specifying that no person subject to the Code of Ethics, or their family members, may accept gifts or other benefits from an interested person without providing lawful consideration of equal or greater value in return. It raises the maximum value of an acceptable gift from a single interested person to $50, with an aggregate limit of $250 in any calendar year.

Additionally, the bill outlines prohibited activities for individuals subject to the Code of Ethics, including the acceptance of gifts that could influence official actions. The act is set to take effect upon passage, reinforcing ethical standards for public officials and employees in Rhode Island.