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6/3/2026
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Senate approves Leader Ciccone bills to ensure constitutional rights of Rhode Island residents upheld
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STATE HOUSE – The Senate today approved Majority Leader Frank A. Ciccone’s (D–Dist. 7, Providence, Johnston) two bills that ensure federal officers operating in Rhode Island comply with the rights and protections guaranteed by the United States Constitution, while emphasizing the critical role states must play in defending constitutional principles.
The first bill (2026-S 2605) would allow Rhode Island residents to file civil lawsuits in state court against federal officials who, while acting under federal authority, violate their constitutional rights, and it would restrict these officials’ ability to invoke legal immunity.
The second bill (2026-S 3116) reinforces that immigration enforcement is primarily a federal responsibility. The legislation would allow cooperation in criminal investigations but would prohibit state and local authorities from voluntarily participating in federal civil immigration enforcement when a judicial warrant or court order is not provided.
Leader Ciccone said the proposals reflect a broader principle: that states have both the authority and the responsibility to ensure that constitutional protections are respected within their borders.
“States serve as an important safeguard when questions arise about the protection of constitutional rights. Rhode Island has an obligation to ensure that all law enforcement activity carried out within our communities meets the standards set forth in the Constitution.” said Leader Ciccone.
He noted that concerns raised by residents, advocates, and local officials have highlighted the importance of clarity around enforcement practices and the legal standards that must govern them. The legislation is intended to reinforce those standards while maintaining respect for federal authority and the rule of law.
“This effort is not about preventing lawful enforcement,” Leader Ciccone said. “It is about reaffirming that enforcement must occur within the bounds of the law and with respect for the constitutional protections that define our justice system.”
Leader Ciccone stressed that the legislation carefully considers constitutional limits, including the balance of authority between federal and state governments. He expressed confidence that states have the legal authority to ensure that actions taken within their jurisdictions respect the protections guaranteed by the Constitution.
“Our goal is to move forward in a way that is responsible, lawful, and firmly grounded in constitutional principles,” Leader Ciccone said. “At a time when many residents are looking to their state leaders for reassurance, it is important that we demonstrate both our commitment to the rule of law and our willingness to defend the rights of all Rhode Islanders.”
The bills now head to the House for consideration, where Rep. Brandon Potter (D-Dist. 16, Cranston) has introduced one bill (2026-H 7202) and Rep. John J. Lombardi (D-Dist. 8, Providence) has introduced the other piece of legislation (2026-H 8347).
For more information, contact:
Andrew Caruolo, Publicist
State House Room 20
Providence, RI 02903
(401)222-6124
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