Prohibits any questioning of a juvenile who is suspected of delinquent or criminal behavior, unless the parent of guardian of the juvenile is present, or unless an attorney is present or the juvenile and their parents have waived their presence.

## Rhode Island Bill Summary: Juvenile Questioning Protections

This bill would establish new rules about how and when police or other authorities can question young people suspected of breaking the law in Rhode Island. Under the proposal, if a juvenile is suspected of delinquent or criminal behavior, no questioning could take place unless a parent or guardian is physically present during the interrogation. Alternatively, questioning could proceed if the juvenile has an attorney present, or if both the juvenile and their parents have formally agreed to waive (give up) the right to have a parent or lawyer there.

The bill is primarily designed to protect minors from being questioned by law enforcement without a trusted adult or legal advocate by their side. Currently, juveniles can sometimes be questioned under circumstances that critics argue may not fully protect their rights, given that young people may not fully understand legal processes or the consequences of what they say. This legislation would create a clearer, more protective standard specifically for minors in Rhode Island.

This bill would directly affect juveniles suspected of any delinquent or criminal activity, their parents or guardians, law enforcement officers who conduct questioning, and the Rhode Island Family Court system. Law enforcement agencies would need to adjust their procedures to comply with the new requirements before any questioning could begin. The bill has been introduced and referred to the House Judiciary Committee, where it will be reviewed before any further action is taken.