Requires law enforcement agencies to obtain search warrants for electronic information, data, location information and other identifying information of subscribers and customers, except in specified circumstances.

Rhode Island Electronic Information and Data Privacy Act

This bill would require law enforcement agencies in Rhode Island to obtain a search warrant before accessing a person's electronic information. This includes things like emails, text messages, location data, browsing history, and account information held by companies like phone carriers, internet providers, or app platforms. Currently, police can sometimes obtain this kind of digital information from third-party companies without a warrant. This bill would close that gap and require judicial approval — meaning a judge would have to review the request and agree there is probable cause — before that information could be handed over.

The bill does include exceptions for certain situations. For example, emergencies involving immediate danger to someone's life or cases where evidence might be quickly destroyed could allow law enforcement to act without waiting for a warrant. The specific details of those exceptions would shape how the law works in practice.

This bill primarily affects Rhode Island residents who use digital devices and online services, as it would strengthen their privacy protections. It also affects businesses like phone companies, internet providers, and app developers that store customer data, since they would have clearer legal grounds to refuse handing over information without a proper warrant. Law enforcement agencies would need to follow additional legal steps before accessing digital records in most investigations.

The bill was introduced in the Rhode Island House of Representatives and referred to the House Judiciary Committee. The committee has recommended it be held for further study, meaning it has not yet moved forward, but it is scheduled for a hearing in February 2026.