The bill introduces a new section, 36-14-22, to Chapter 36-14 of the General Laws, known as the "Code of Ethics," which explicitly prohibits sexual harassment in the context of legislative business. Sexual harassment is defined as any sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal, nonverbal, or physical contact of a sexual nature that a reasonable person would find inappropriate. This prohibition applies to senators, representatives, regular full-time, part-time, temporary or contractual employees of the General Assembly, volunteers, interns, pages, and lobbyists while they are actively engaged in legislative activities.

Complaints of sexual harassment must be made to the Rhode Island Ethics Commission, which will investigate them in accordance with existing provisions. If a violation is found, the Ethics Commission is authorized to impose remedial actions, including warnings, reprimands, withholding of promotions or pay increases, reassignment, temporary suspension without pay, termination, or other appropriate penalties.

Additionally, all individuals covered by this section are required to complete an annual education and training program on sexual harassment, with completion records maintained by the Rhode Island Ethics Commission and made available to the public. Failure to comply with this requirement may result in disciplinary action, including penalties as outlined in the remedial actions. The Rhode Island Ethics Commission is also tasked with issuing rules to implement this section by December 1, 2026. The act will take effect upon its passage.