Criminalizes and sets mandatory minimum sentences for the unlawful interference with traffic upon the federal and state highways of this state.

Plain-English Summary

This Rhode Island bill would make it a crime to unlawfully block or interfere with traffic on federal and state highways. It would establish mandatory minimum sentences, meaning judges would be required to impose at least a certain punishment — such as a fine or jail time — for anyone convicted under this law, with limited flexibility to go below that threshold. The bill falls under the category of disorderly conduct offenses in Rhode Island's criminal code.

The bill would most directly affect people who participate in activities that block or disrupt roadway traffic, such as protest demonstrations that spill onto highways. Law enforcement and prosecutors would also be affected, as the new law would give them a specific criminal charge to apply in these situations. Courts would have less discretion in sentencing because of the mandatory minimum provisions.

Currently, the bill has been introduced in the Rhode Island House and referred to the House Judiciary Committee, which has recommended it be "held for further study" — meaning it has not moved forward yet and lawmakers want more time to review it before taking action. It is scheduled for a hearing in March 2026. No final vote has been taken, so this bill has not become law.