RI
Rhode Island House Bill H7583
Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session
Menu
RI

Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7583

Introduced
2/6/26  

Caption

Increases fees paid to jurors to fifty dollars ($50.00) per day.

Impact

The increase in jurors' fees is expected to enhance the financial support for citizens who participate in jury duty, which is a critical element of the judicial process. Currently, low compensation may deter potential jurors from serving, which can impact the effectiveness of the legal system. By raising the fee, the General Assembly seeks to acknowledge the importance of civic duty performed by jurors and alleviate the financial burden experienced by those who take time off work to fulfill this responsibility.

Summary

House Bill H7583 aims to amend the existing regulations on the compensation of jurors in Rhode Island. Specifically, the bill proposes to increase the daily fee paid to grand and petit jurors from $25 to $50. This change is designed to provide fair compensation for jurors' time and contributions to the judicial process, coming into effect on July 1, 2026. The legislation has been introduced by Representative Matthew S. Dawson and has been referred to the House Finance Committee for further consideration.

Conclusion

Overall, H7583 presents a straightforward adjustment in juror compensation, acknowledging the essential role that jurors play in upholding the judicial process. As it moves through the legislative process, key discussions will likely focus on the bill's implications for state finances and the balance between adequate compensation for jurors and fiscal responsibility.

Contention

While the bill primarily serves to increase juror compensation, it could raise concerns regarding the overall fiscal implications on the state budget. The General Assembly will need to annually appropriate funds to support the increased fees, which may lead to discussions about the allocation of state resources. Some legislators might argue that the increase is necessary for encouraging civic participation, while others could express concerns about the potential strain on the state's budget, especially if paired with other financial obligations.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0303

Increases fees paid to jurors to fifty dollars ($50.00) per day.

RI H6049

Increases fees paid to jurors to fifty dollars ($50.00) per day.

RI S0027

Increases the income range up to fifty thousand dollars ($50,000) and tax credit up to eight hundred fifty dollars ($850), for elderly and disabled persons who own or rent their homes.

RI H5218

Increases insurance coverage for hearing aids from one thousand five hundred dollars ($1,500) to one thousand seven hundred fifty dollars ($1,750), per ear, for all people regardless of age effective January 1, 2026.

RI S0120

Increases insurance coverage for hearing aids from one thousand five hundred dollars ($1,500) to one thousand seven hundred fifty dollars ($1,750), per ear, for all people regardless of age effective January 1, 2026.

RI S1110

Increases the landing fee for the town of Narragansett from fifty cents ($.50) to one dollar ($1.00).

RI H6347

Increases the landing fee for the town of Narragansett from fifty cents ($.50) to one dollar ($1.00).

RI S0980

Increases the landing fee for the town of New Shoreham from fifty cents ($.50) to one dollar ($1.00).

RI H6246

Increases the landing fee for the town of New Shoreham from fifty cents ($.50) to one dollar ($1.00).

RI S0443

Increases the maximum amount of the Kingston water district bonding authority from four million dollars ($4,000,000) to fifteen million dollars ($15,000,000).

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.