Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2141

Introduced
1/16/26  
Refer
1/16/26  
Report Pass
3/26/26  
Engrossed
3/31/26  

Caption

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

Impact

If implemented, this bill would impact the state's judicial budget as it mandates an increase in juror compensation, requiring the General Assembly to make annual appropriations to cover the increased expense. The act also introduces a mechanism through which jurors can opt to donate their daily fee to the Rhode Island Veterans Home Community Living Center. This provision demonstrates an acknowledgment of both the service of jurors and support for veterans, reflecting a broader commitment to community welfare.

Summary

Bill S2141, introduced in January 2026, seeks to amend the existing laws regarding juror fees in the state of Rhode Island. The legislation proposes to increase the compensation paid to grand and petit jurors from the prior rate of $25 to a new rate of $50 per day. This change is aimed at recognizing the valuable service jurors provide to the court system and ensuring that their participation is fair in terms of compensation, which may encourage more residents to serve, thereby promoting civic engagement in the judicial process.

Contention

While the bill does not appear to have generated significant opposition based on available discussions, there are underlying questions regarding the long-term financial implications for the state budget. Legislators may need to consider how the increased juror fees will be funded and whether this could lead to budget reallocations or impacts on other vital areas of state funding. Discussions around public perception of fair compensation versus state fiscal responsibility may arise, particularly as these changes take effect and budgets are reviewed.

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.