Bill > H7211

This bill, titled "The Rhode Island Community Protection Act," prohibits law enforcement officers from wearing masks or disguises when interacting with the public, with specific exceptions for safety and undercover operations, aiming to improve public perception, officer-community interactions, and accountability by ensuring officers are identifiable. The act defines "law enforcement officer" broadly and "mask" as a facial covering worn as a disguise or to conceal identity. Exceptions to the mask prohibition include medical-grade masks for disease prevention, protection against smoke or biological/chemical agents, cold weather emergencies, SWAT team gear for physical protection, officers in high-risk situations like shootouts or hostage-taking, and those on undercover assignments. Furthermore, officers must wear visible identification, such as their name or badge number and employing agency's name, unless they are on an undercover assignment. Violating these provisions can result in criminal penalties of up to one year in jail or a $1,000 fine, and individuals who commit certain torts (wrongful acts) while knowingly and willfully violating the mask prohibition will be held civilly liable for at least $10,000 in damages, without the ability to claim privilege or immunity. The bill also includes a severability clause, meaning if one part is found invalid, the rest of the act remains in effect, and it takes effect immediately upon passage.

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