Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7606

Introduced
2/11/26  

Caption

Establishes enforcement limitations on contract terms for the licensing of electronic books or digital audiobooks to libraries to preclude the library from being subject to unfair sales practices.

Impact

This legislation aims to safeguard public access to electronic literary materials and maintain the traditional role of libraries in providing equitable access to resources. By curbing unfair practices in contractual agreements, the bill intends to reinforce the libraries' ability to offer services while embracing the advancements in technology. Specifically, the bill prohibits restrictive clauses in contracts that would limit libraries’ functions such as loaning materials or making preservation copies, thereby promoting a more favorable environment for libraries to operate.

Summary

House Bill 7606 seeks to address the challenges faced by Rhode Island libraries regarding the licensing of electronic books and digital audiobooks. The bill establishes enforcement limitations on contract terms, ensuring that libraries are not subjected to unfair sales practices by publishers or aggregators. By amending Title 6 of the General Laws, the bill provides that Rhode Island law will govern all library ebook contracts, utilizing the state's existing laws on unconscionability to protect libraries from unfair contract terms.

Contention

Discussions around HB 7606 may raise issues of contention, particularly concerning the balance of power between libraries and publishers. While proponents argue that such regulations are crucial for protecting libraries and enhancing public access, opponents may worry about the implications this could have on the publishing industry and the availability of materials. Additionally, the bill specifies that enforcement will only take effect once at least two other states enact similar laws, which might be seen as a strategic move to ensure its viability and effectiveness in the wider context.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5488

Creates the School Libraries Act.

RI S0639

Creates the School Libraries Act.

RI S0178

Requires every public school in Rhode Island to have a school library or library media center in a permanent and dedicated space available to students in grades K-12 with a librarian available.

RI H5400

Requires that the state's share to public libraries be fixed at twenty-five percent (25%) of the amount appropriated by the city or town in their budgets for fiscal year 2026.

RI S0453

Requires that the state's share to public libraries be fixed at twenty-five percent (25%) of the amount appropriated by the city or town in their budgets for fiscal year 2026.

RI S0060

Establishes a digital electronics right to repair, which allows for digital electronic equipment and parts that are sold in this state on or after January 1, 2026, to be repaired at an independent repair provider.

RI H5246

Establishes a digital electronics right to repair, which would allow for digital electronic equipment and parts that are sold in this state on or after January 1, 2026, to be repaired at an independent repair provider

RI S0749

Requires that, beginning January 1, 2028, all contractors structurally remodeling or building new residential structures with 1 to 4 family dwelling units be licensed by the contractors’ registration and licensing board.

RI H5555

Authorizes veterinarians to establish a client-patient relationship through electronic means, subject to limitations and requirements such as Vet making a good faith effort to determine if care should be provided through telemedicine instead of in person.

RI S0647

Authorizes veterinarians to establish a client-patient relationship through electronic means, subject to limitations and requirements such as Vet making a good faith effort to determine if care should be provided through telemedicine instead of in person.

Similar Bills

HI HB2577

Relating To Licensing Of Electronic Literary Material.

NJ S1674

Prohibits contracts for procurement and licensing of electronic literary materials from including certain provisions.

DC B26-0490

Library E-book Pricing Fairness Amendment Act of 2025

CT HB06958

An Act Making Certain Terms In Electronic Book And Digital Audiobook License Agreements Or Contracts Unenforceable.

CT SB01234

An Act Prohibiting Libraries From Agreeing To Certain Terms In Electronic Book And Digital Audiobook License Agreements Or Contracts.

IA HF466

A bill for an act relating to contracts between a publisher and a library for electronic literary materials, and providing civil penalties.

RI S2525

Establishes enforcement limitations on contract terms for the licensing of electronic books or digital audiobooks to libraries to preclude the library from being subject to unfair sales practices.

MN SF3685

Certain libraries' electronic book and digital audiobook license agreements or contracts terms prohibition