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6/28/2022 Rep. Casimiro’s legislation protecting kids from sexual predators signed into law
STATE HOUSE – The governor signed into law legislation (2022-H 8230) sponsored by Rep. Julie A. Casimiro which will close a loophole that allowed those in positions of authority to engage in sexual relations with children.

“As we have seen with too many recent news reports, we are not doing our job and protecting our kids from sexual predators in positions of authority.  This bill will close a dangerous loophole that has allowed individuals to abuse their authority and hurt our kids through coercive or abusive sexual behavior.  These criminals need to be held accountable for preying on our children and this legislation will do just that,” said Representative Casimiro (D-Dist. 31, North Kingstown, Exeter).

Currently, any individual who engages in sex with a minor under 14 years old is guilty of first-degree child molestation sexual assault.  Representative Casimiro’s legislation makes anyone in a position of authority who has sexual contact with a minor over 14 and under 18 years old guilty of third-degree sexual assault. A conviction of third-degree sexual assault has a penalty of five years in prison.



For more information, contact:
Andrew Caruolo, Publicist
State House Room 20
Providence, RI 02903
(401)222-6124