2026 -- H 8050

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LC005103

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     STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

IN GENERAL ASSEMBLY

JANUARY SESSION, A.D. 2026

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A N   A C T

RELATING TO COURTS AND CIVIL PROCEDURE -- PROCEDURE GENERALLY --

CAUSES OF ACTION

     

     Introduced By: Representatives McEntee, Caldwell, Spears, O'Brien, and Potter

     Date Introduced: February 27, 2026

     Referred To: House Judiciary

     (Judiciary)

It is enacted by the General Assembly as follows:

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     SECTION 1. Chapter 9-1 of the General Laws entitled "Causes of Action" is hereby

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amended by adding thereto the following section:

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     9-1-27.4. Family court mediators - Immunity from liability.

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     The state shall protect and hold harmless mediators and other staff of the family court

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mediation program from financial loss and expense, including legal fees and costs, if any, arising

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out of any claim, demand, or suit for damages resulting from acts or omissions committed in the

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discharge of their duties with the program and within the scope of their employment which may

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constitute negligence, but which acts are not wanton, malicious, or grossly negligent as determined

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by a court of competent jurisdiction.

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     SECTION 2. This act shall take effect upon passage.

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LC005103

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EXPLANATION

BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL

OF

A N   A C T

RELATING TO COURTS AND CIVIL PROCEDURE -- PROCEDURE GENERALLY --

CAUSES OF ACTION

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     This act would provide immunity for mediators and staff employed by the family court in

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the family court mediation program from financial liability for certain claims arising out of their

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participation in the program.

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     This act would take effect upon passage.

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LC005103

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