Outline of the state of Rhode Island
State
Rhode Island
Requires referral for any offense in violation of criminal code

Category
Limits on Referrals to Law Enforcement

Category
Limits on Referrals to Law Enforcement

State law requires districts to refer students to local law enforcement for any offense that may be a violation of the criminal code.

State of Rhode Island General Laws § 11-47-60.2. Possession of weapons on school grounds -- Notification

(a) If a student is found to be carrying a weapon, as defined in § 11-47-42, a firearm or replica of a firearm, or commits an aggravated assault on school grounds as defined in § 11-47-60, the principal or designee shall immediately notify the student's parents and the local police and turn the weapon over, if any, to the local enforcement agency. (b) Any person who has reasonable cause to know that any person is in violation of this Statuteshall notify the principal or designee. The principal or designee shall immediately notify the student's parents and the local police. Any person acting in good faith who makes a report under this section shall have immunity from any civil liability that might otherwise be incurred or imposed as a result of making the report. (c) School superintendents shall receive notice from the clerk of the family court regarding the disposition of all cases involving juveniles from their school districts adjudged pursuant to this statute. This information shall remain confidential and be shared with school officials who deal directly with the student. (d) The provisions of this section should not apply to the following activities when the activities are officially recognized and sanctioned by the educational institution: (1) Firearm instructed and/or safety course; (2) Government-sponsored military-related programs such as ROTC; (3) Interscholastic shooting and/or marksmanship events; (4) Military history and firearms collection courses and/or programs; and (5) The use of blank guns in theatrical and/or athletic events. (e) The provisions of this section shall not apply to colleges, universities or junior colleges.

Policy Type
Statute

State of Rhode Island General Laws § 16-21-34. Statewide bullying policy implemented.

(a) The Rhode Island department of education shall prescribe by regulation a statewide bullying policy, ensuring a consistent and unified, statewide approach to the prohibition of bullying at school. The statewide policy shall apply to all schools that are approved for the purpose of § 16-9-1 and shall contain the following:

  • (1) Descriptions of and statements prohibiting bullying, cyber-bullying and retaliation of school;
Policy Type
Statute