The bill amends Section 11-45-1 of the General Laws regarding "Disorderly Conduct" by updating the language to replace "he or she" with "the person" for clarity. It maintains the existing definitions of disorderly conduct, which include engaging in fighting, making unreasonable noise, using offensive words, obstructing public spaces, and looking into private areas for lascivious purposes. The bill also clarifies that lawful picketing or demonstrations related to labor disputes are not prevented by certain provisions of this section.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new section, 11-45-3, which criminalizes "unlawful interference with traffic" on federal and state highways. This section defines unlawful interference with traffic as intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly standing, sitting, kneeling, or loitering on highways in a manner that could reasonably be construed as interfering with the lawful movement of traffic or causing interruption, obstruction, distraction, or delay to motorists.

Violations of this section are classified as felonies, with mandatory minimum sentences established for repeat offenses: a first violation carries a sentence of one to three years, a second violation carries a sentence of three to five years, and a third violation carries a sentence of five to ten years, with specific conditions regarding eligibility for suspension, deferral, or probation. Furthermore, if the conduct results in the death of a person due to interference with an emergency vehicle, the offender faces a sentence of five to thirty years, with a minimum of five years ineligible for suspension, deferral, or probation. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
7550: 11-45-1