Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7647

Introduced
2/11/26  

Caption

RELATING TO DELINQUENT AND DEPENDENT CHILDREN -- PROCEEDINGS IN, FAMILY COURT -- JUVENILE RECORDS

Impact

If enacted, H7647 would modify the current statutes regarding juvenile record confidentiality. By allowing access to these records for background checks, the bill sets a precedent that may influence how juvenile offenders are treated in comparison to adult offenders in regard to firearm purchases. This could lead to changes in state laws regulating the protection of juvenile identity while also addressing concerns associated with firearm accessibility for those with prior juvenile offenses.

Summary

House Bill H7647 proposes amendments to the handling of juvenile criminal records with a focus on facilitating firearm background checks. The bill seeks to allow disclosure of juvenile records specifically for conducting National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) checks until the individual reaches the age of 21. This measure is aimed at enhancing public safety by ensuring that individuals with juvenile convictions are appropriately screened when purchasing firearms.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding H7647 revolve around the balance between public safety and the rights of juveniles. Supporters argue that it is essential to use all available information to prevent potentially dangerous individuals from acquiring firearms. Conversely, opponents express concerns that this change could unfairly penalize young individuals for mistakes made in their past, potentially impacting their future opportunities and contributing to the stigma of juvenile offenses.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5651

Allows access to juvenile criminal records in order to conduct firearm background checks.

RI S0560

Amends §§ 14-1-3 and 14-5-8, relating to possession of marijuana and proceedings in family court ensuring that children under 17 years of age in possession of less than 2 oz of marijuana are subject to the jurisdiction of the family court.

RI H5894

Amends §§ 14-1-3 and 14-5-8, relating to possession of marijuana and proceedings in family court ensuring that children under 17 years of age in possession of less than 2 oz of marijuana are subject to the jurisdiction of the family court.

RI S0809

Grants Rhode Island's family court jurisdiction to make findings for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status petitions, including determinations about dependency, parental reunification, and the child’s best interest, for minors under twenty-one (21) years.

RI H6120

Grants the family court jurisdiction to make findings for special immigrant juvenile status petitions, including determinations about dependency, parental reunification, and the child’s best interest, for minors/petitioners under 21 years of age.

RI S0148

Prohibits any questioning of a juvenile who is suspected of delinquent or criminal behavior, unless the parent of guardian of the juvenile is present, or unless an attorney is present or the juvenile and their parents have waived their presence.

RI H5298

Prohibits any questioning of a juvenile who is suspected of delinquent or criminal behavior, unless the parent of guardian of the juvenile is present, or unless an attorney is present or the juvenile and their parents have waived their presence.

RI H5346

Prohibit the family court from detaining any juvenile or committing any juvenile, under the age of 12 years, to the training school, for any offense other than murder, first degree sexual assault, or an attempt to commit such offenses.

RI S0205

Prohibit the family court from detaining any juvenile or committing any juvenile, under the age of 12 years, to the training school, for any offense other than murder, first degree sexual assault, or an attempt to commit such offenses.

RI S0823

Expands the definition of peace officers to include juvenile program workers and shift coordinators at the department of youth, children and families.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.