This bill, HB 6282, aims to regulate the use of self-service checkout stations in grocery stores in Rhode Island. It establishes a definition for "grocery store" and specifies that these stores may not operate more than six self-service checkout stations at any one time per location. Additionally, for every self-service checkout station, there must be at least one manual checkout station available to assist customers.

The enforcement of these regulations will be the responsibility of the consumer protection unit (CPU) of the Department of Attorney General, which will have the authority to impose fines for violations—$500 for the first and second offenses, and $1,000 for third and subsequent violations. The bill allows any Rhode Island resident to file a complaint with the CPU regarding violations without fear of retaliation. It also provides a legal recourse for employees who experience retaliation for reporting violations. The act is set to take effect upon passage.