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6/30/2025
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Bill to protect election workers signed into law
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STATE HOUSE — Legislation sponsored by Senate Majority Whip David P. Tikoian and Rep. Matthew S. Dawson to protect election officials and poll workers has been signed into law. Whip Tikoian and Representative Dawson worked closely with Secretary of State Gregg M. Amore to introduce the legislation
“As we have seen across the country, political violence is on the rise and our dedicated election officials and workers are on the front lines. It’s unfortunate that we need this legislation to protect the individuals who ensure our elections work properly, but it’s important that anyone who threatens or intimidates these workers is held accountable for their actions,” said Whip Tikoian (D-Dist. 22, Smithfield, North Providence, Lincoln).
“Tensions are still running extremely high these days, but it is no excuse to threaten or intimidate our dedicated poll workers and election officials. These individuals keep our democracy going, and they in no way deserve the anger we have seen directed at them over the past few years. This bill will not only protect our electoral process, but more importantly, it will protect the people who ensure that we have free and fair elections,” said Representative Dawson (D-Dist. 65, East Providence).
“Election officials and poll workers are at the very heart of our democracy, and they deserve to do their job without fear of harassment or threats,” said Secretary of State Amore. “I thank the General Assembly for showing their support for election officials and poll workers by once again passing this bill.”
The legislation (2025-H 5300A, 2025-S 0729A) will make threats to election officials a misdemeanor, which includes election workers, poll workers, wardens, moderators and the board of canvassers. Threats are defined as anyone who knowingly and willfully delivers or conveys, directly or indirectly, a verbal or written threat to take the life of, or to inflict bodily harm upon, any election official, or a member of his or her immediate family because of the performance or nonperformance of their public duty. Penalties would include imprisonment for not more than one year, or a fine of up to $1,000, or both.
For more information, contact:
Tristan Grau, Publicist
State House Room B20
Providence, RI 02903
401.222.4935
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