Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2728

Introduced
2/27/26  

Caption

Requires notice to E-ZPass users before DMV reporting, and set rules and regulations for transponder failures, requires outreach and free replacements, and allow mitigation or forgiveness of tolls and penalties from equipment failures.

Impact

This bill, if enacted, will change the way toll violations are processed in Rhode Island. It introduces standardized regulations for mitigating and forgiving administrative fees, fines, and penalties that arise from transponder failures attributed to circumstances beyond the control of users. RITBA will be compelled to implement a trouble-free process for customers to appeal and rectify issues arising from identified or systemic failures of transponder systems, ensuring fairness and transparency in enforcement proceedings. These measures are designed to minimize the financial burden on users who may otherwise face unjust penalties without proper notice of their E-ZPass status.

Summary

Bill S2728 mandates the Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority (RITBA) to establish a comprehensive framework to communicate with E-ZPass users regarding toll violations and transponder failures. This bill aims to implement proactive outreach to ensure that account holders are aware of potential issues related to their transponders, such as battery depletion or malfunctions, before they incur penalties. It stipulates that adequate notice must be provided before any reporting of toll violations to the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV), ensuring that users are duly informed about the status of their accounts.

Contention

Despite the measures introduced, there could be points of contention regarding the effectiveness of these rules and whether they adequately address systemic failures. Critics may argue that enforcement practices still need to balance rigorous toll collection while protecting customer rights. Furthermore, there may be concerns that implementing such regulations could require significant administrative resources or could complicate existing enforcement protocols. Questions may also arise whether the notice and outreach obligations are sufficiently robust to prevent users from facing penalties in cases of unforeseen equipment malfunctions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0804

Extends the repayment period for toll violations, and requires the RI transit and bridge authority to notify frequent violators by certified mail that their driver's license may be in jeopardy for failure to pay toll violations.

RI S0404

Requires the PUC to make public notification of any changes in eligibility or production of energy, and would direct the commission to promulgate rules and regulations to allow and facilitate the prompt public disclosure of this information.

RI S0469

Requires written consent by recipient or parent before vaccine and prohibits discrimination against those who don't vaccinate and fines up to $25,000 for violation. Also prohibits DCYF from investigating their for failure to vaccinate their child.

RI S0574

Provides that a hearing required before a judge or magistrate may adjudge a motorist in contempt for failure to comply with the court's orders regarding a conditional hardship license, and defines penalties for violation of a hardship/interlock order.

RI H5896

Provides that a hearing required before a judge or magistrate may adjudge a motorist in contempt for failure to comply with the court's orders regarding a conditional hardship license, and defines penalties for violation of a hardship/interlock order.

RI S0492

Allows municipalities to enact ordinances that would permit municipalities and water suppliers to enter properties to perform lead service line replacements and permit tenants to request and schedule private side lead service line replacements.

RI H5375

Allows municipalities to enact ordinances that would permit municipalities and water suppliers to enter properties to perform lead service line replacements and permit tenants to request and schedule private side lead service line replacements.

RI S0209

Limits the use of certain criminal records and credit history reports in denying housing to prospective applicants, and provides for fines for failure to comply. This act further requires notices of denials to be sent to the prospective tenants.

RI S0550

Allows animal control officers in the cities and towns to lawfully take charge of and provide adequate care to any animal found abandoned or neglected or hazardously accumulated and would increase penalties for malicious injury to or killing of animals.

RI H6407

Allows animal control officers in the cities and towns to lawfully take charge of and provide adequate care to any animal found abandoned or neglected or hazardously accumulated and would increase penalties for malicious injury to or killing of animals.

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