Expands the definition of peace officers to include juvenile program workers and shift coordinators at the department of youth, children and families.

Plain-English Summary

This bill would expand who counts as a "peace officer" under Rhode Island law to include juvenile program workers and shift coordinators who work at the Department of Youth, Children and Families (DCYF). Currently, the legal definition of "peace officer" includes roles like police officers and certain other government officials, but it does not cover these particular DCYF employees.

By being classified as peace officers, juvenile program workers and shift coordinators at DCYF would gain certain legal authorities that come with that designation — most notably, the ability to make arrests. This could affect how these workers manage and supervise the young people in their care at juvenile facilities, giving them more formal legal tools to maintain order and respond to incidents.

The bill primarily affects employees who work directly with juveniles in the state's youth custody and corrections system, as well as the young people under DCYF supervision. Supporters of such measures often argue it helps staff do their jobs more safely and effectively, while others may raise questions about the appropriate level of authority for workers in youth-focused settings. The bill has been referred to the House Judiciary Committee, which has recommended it be held for further study, meaning lawmakers want more time to review and discuss it before moving forward.