SB 2991 Rhode Island Senate · 2026 Regular Session

AN ACT RELATING TO STATE AFFAIRS AND GOVERNMENT -- THE BODY CAMERAS FOR CORRECTIONAL FACILITIES ACT -- THE WILLIE WASHINGTON, JR. ACT

This bill requires all Department of Corrections staff in direct supervision roles to wear body cameras while on duty within correctional facilities. The law mandates that cameras be activated during specific interactions such as use of force incidents, transporting individuals, medical emergencies, and disciplinary proceedings, with recordings retained for at least 60 days unless needed for investigations. An independent oversight board will be established to review critical incidents and complaints, while incarcerated individuals will be informed of recording practices and given the right to request footage review. The Department of Corrections must provide staff training on camera use and privacy, submit biannual reports to the General Assembly, and face disciplinary action for non-compliance.
Bill status died 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Mar 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Mar 4, 2026 Last action May 12, 2026
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Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
3
Key actions
0
Committee
1
May 12, 2026
Committee
05/12/2026 Committee recommended measure be held for further study
legislature
Mar 4, 2026
Introduced
03/04/2026 Introduced, referred to Senate Judiciary
upper
6 primary · 0 co-sponsors

Sponsors