 |
|
6/24/2026
|
Acosta, Felix legislation to close loophole that allowed deportations for minor offenses signed into law
|
STATE HOUSE — Legislation introduced by Sen. Jonathon Acosta and Rep. Leonela Felix that revises the state’s definitions of felonies, misdemeanors and petty misdemeanors to close a loophole that allowed lawful permanent residents and other noncitizens to be deported for minor, non-violent offenses has been signed into law.
The legislation (2026-S 2047A, 2026-H 7198A) updates Rhode Island’s definitions of felonies, misdemeanors and petty misdemeanors and closes a longstanding loophole that can subject lawful permanent residents and other noncitizens to severe federal immigration consequences for certain low-level offenses.
“As we continue to recognize the injustices enshrined throughout our judicial system that have had detrimental impacts predominantly on residents of color or limited socio-economic status, this bill will help correct an unintentional overlap between federal immigration law and Rhode Island General Laws on misdemeanors,” said Senator Acosta (D-Dist. 16, Central Falls, Pawtucket). “The passage of this bill is even more important now due to the deplorable rhetoric and actions coming out of Washington with the current administration. Updating these outdated definitions will help alleviate persistent judicial injustices while also saving the taxpayers money and easing pressures on the correctional system. Most importantly though, this bill will have a meaningful and beneficial impact on the lives of individuals who have made mistakes, but who are also sincere and genuine about being productive members of our society.”
The bill redefines a felony as “any criminal offense which at any given time may be punished by imprisonment for a term of more than one year.” A misdemeanor is defined as “any criminal offense which may be punishable by imprisonment for a term of more than six months and not exceeding 364 days, or solely by a fine of more than $1,000.” A petty misdemeanor is “any criminal offense which may be punishable by imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months or solely by a fine of more than $500, or both, and not more than $1,000.”
“Reducing a maximum sentence by a single day may seem like a small change, but for many Rhode Island families it can mean the difference between staying together and being torn apart,” said Representative Felix (D-Dist. 61, Pawtucket). “Under federal immigration law, a low-level offense carrying a potential one-year sentence can trigger severe immigration consequences, including deportation, even when no jail time is imposed. This bill closes that loophole for minor, nonviolent offenses while preserving appropriate penalties for serious crimes. A lawful permanent resident who has lived, worked, paid taxes, and raised a family in Rhode Island for decades should not face deportation because of a technicality in our sentencing laws. This legislation brings greater fairness and proportionality to our justice system.”
The law’s signing marks the culmination of a five-year effort by Senator Acosta and Representative Felix to close a longstanding loophole in Rhode Island law. The legislation will help keep families together, reduce unnecessary collateral consequences for minor offenses and ensure that Rhode Island’s criminal statutes reflect principles of fairness, proportionality and justice.
For more information, contact:
Tristan Grau, Publicist
State House Room B20
Providence, RI 02903
401.222.4935
|
|