Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7114

Introduced
1/15/26  

Caption

Permits special community service to be imposed because of bullying based on religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or ethnicity.

Impact

If passed, H7114 would amend Chapter 16-21 of the General Laws regarding the health and safety of pupils. The introduction of this legislation signifies a shift towards addressing bullying through a lens of restorative justice rather than purely punitive measures. This change not only aims to hold students accountable for their actions but also encourages rehabilitation and understanding, which is seen as critical in a diverse educational environment.

Summary

House Bill H7114 aims to establish a formal mechanism within the education system to address incidents of bullying that are motivated by a student’s religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or ethnicity. The bill seeks to implement a restorative justice approach that requires offending students to complete up to ten hours of directed community service as a consequence for their actions. This community service is intended to promote learning and insight, helping students to understand the impact of their behavior and preventing future incidents of bullying.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from differing views on the effectiveness of community service as a deterrent for bullying behavior, particularly regarding how it is tailored to specific instances of bullying. Critics might argue that such measures could lack the necessary disciplinary weight to dissuade students from engaging in harmful behaviors, while supporters may contend that fostering empathetic understanding through community engagement is more beneficial in the long run.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5904

Provides that evidence of life or work expectancy shall be based on statistical data using blended statistics and shall not be based on race, ethnicity or sex.

RI S0390

Would provide for better communication between sending and receiving districts regarding students receiving special education services.

RI H6046

Requires reimbursement for medical, dental, and behavioral health services provided at community health care centers to equal the lesser of the actual cost, based on Medicaid reports, or 125% of the median rate for all community health centers within RI.

RI S0896

Requires reimbursement for medical, dental, and behavioral health services provided at community health care centers to equal the lesser of the actual cost, based on Medicaid reports, or 125% of the median rate for all community health centers within RI.

RI S0237

Provides protections for students and parents against discrimination on the basis of a religious viewpoint or religious expression in schools. Allows students to pray or engage in religious activities before, during or after school.

RI H5282

Amend the calculation of state funding provided to local education agencies for special education services.

RI H6003

Provides for increases or decreases in the amount of foundation level school support that a community would receive, based upon a community's ability to meet and surpass its minimum low- and moderate-income housing requirements.

RI S0975

Provides medical assistance coverage for medical services provided qualifying eligible recipients for community based care.

RI H5532

Mandates additional state education funding for the mental and behavioral health of students equal to 2% of the district’s total expenditures, and require those funds be used to hire staff such as school social workers, and behavioral specialists.

RI S0256

Mandates additional state education funding for the mental and behavioral health of students equal to 2% of the district’s total expenditures, and require those funds be used to hire staff such as school social workers, and behavioral specialists.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.