The bill amends Title 42 of the General Laws by adding Chapter 56.4, which establishes regulations regarding the maximum workday and overtime compensation for peace officers employed by the State of Rhode Island. It declares a public policy aimed at safeguarding the health, efficiency, and general well-being of these employees and those they serve. The chapter defines key terms, including "employee" (peace officers), "employer" (the State of Rhode Island department of corrections), and "unforeseeable emergent circumstance."

It stipulates that peace officers cannot be required to work beyond a predetermined shift of eight hours or ten hours for correctional officer stewards, except in emergencies. The bill also states that refusal to work overtime under these conditions cannot result in discrimination, dismissal, or any adverse employment actions.

Additionally, the bill outlines penalties for violations, requiring the state to pay employees at a rate of double time and a half for any mandated overtime that contravenes the established provisions. It clarifies that the chapter does not negate existing rights or benefits under applicable collective bargaining agreements and includes a severability clause to ensure that if any provision of the chapter is held invalid, the remainder remains effective. The act is set to take effect upon passage.