The proposed bill introduces the "Rhode Island Children's Online Safety Act," which aims to enhance protections for minors using online platforms. It mandates that operators of covered platforms implement commercially reasonable age-verification measures to identify users under the age of eighteen. For users classified as covered minors, the bill requires that default settings restrict interactions with unconnected users, including prohibiting direct communication, profile viewing, tagging, and financial transactions. Parents are granted the authority to override these default settings and must approve all new connections for minors under thirteen, as well as any financial transactions.

Additionally, the bill prohibits operators from employing user interfaces that intentionally subvert or impair the rights of minors and their parents. It ensures nondiscrimination in compliance with the act, stating that operators shall not withhold, degrade, increase the cost of, or otherwise discriminate against a user for purposes of compliance. The Attorney General is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations necessary to implement and enforce the chapter and may bring an action in the name of the state to enforce its provisions. Remedies for violations include injunctive relief, restitution, disgorgement, civil penalties not exceeding five thousand dollars ($5,000) per violation, and any other relief deemed appropriate by the court. The act will take effect upon passage, aiming to create a safer online environment for children in Rhode Island.