Bill > H5666

This bill mandates that campus police officers at public higher educational institutions in Rhode Island be armed and receive specific firearms training by October 1, 2025. The legislation amends existing laws to remove previous restrictions on campus police carrying firearms and requires these officers to complete a firearms instruction course approved by the Rhode Island Police Officers Commission on Standards and Training. Additionally, the bill modifies the definition of "law enforcement officer" in the Law Enforcement Officers' Bill of Rights to explicitly include campus police officers, which means they will now be afforded the same legal protections and procedural rights as other law enforcement personnel. Campus police will be subject to in-service training requirements and standardized training standards, ensuring they are properly prepared for their expanded role. The board of education is tasked with adopting rules and regulations to implement these changes. By requiring firearms training and expanding legal protections, the bill aims to enhance campus safety and provide campus police with the tools and support needed to effectively maintain order and respond to potential security threats.

Justice

https://status.rilegislature.gov/