Prohibits state agencies from entering into software contracts that limit the agency's ability to install or run the software of the agency's choosing on their hardware.

Rhode Island Software Contract Bill

This bill would prevent Rhode Island state government agencies from signing software contracts that restrict what other programs or applications they can install and run on their own computers and devices. In other words, if a software company tried to include a clause in a contract saying the state could *only* use their software — or couldn't run competing software on the same hardware — the state would be prohibited from agreeing to those terms.

The goal appears to be protecting the state's flexibility and independence when it comes to technology decisions. By blocking these kinds of restrictive contract terms, state agencies would retain the freedom to choose the software tools that best fit their needs without being locked into a single vendor's ecosystem. This could also help the state avoid situations where a software company uses contract language to limit competition on government-owned equipment.

This bill primarily affects Rhode Island state government agencies and the technology vendors who do business with them. Taxpayers could potentially benefit indirectly, as greater flexibility in software choices may lead to more competitive pricing and better technology options for public services. Software companies that currently rely on exclusive-use contract terms when selling to the state would need to adjust how they structure their government contracts.

The bill is currently working its way through the Rhode Island House, having been referred to the House Innovation, Internet, & Technology Committee. It was postponed at the sponsor's request in early 2026 and is scheduled for further committee consideration in April 2026.