Rhode Island House Bill H8514

Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/5/26
• Passed: 5/5/26

Caption

CELEBRATING MAY 3 THROUGH MAY 9, 2026, AS "NATIONAL CORRECTIONAL, OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES WEEK" IN THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

Summary

House Resolution H8514 is a ceremonial resolution that designates May 3 through May 9, 2026, as "National Correctional Officers and Employees Week" in Rhode Island. The resolution recounts the history of the observance, noting its origins in a 1984 presidential proclamation and its later federal recognition as "National Correctional Officers and Employees Week." It also states that the week is intended to honor correctional officers and employees for their service, professionalism, and sacrifices. The resolution specifically recognizes employees of the Rhode Island Department of Corrections and members of the Rhode Island Brotherhood of Correctional Officers for their role in maintaining safe, secure, and humane incarceration of individuals in state custody. It directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to the DOC director and the union president. As a resolution, it does not create or amend statutory law, but instead expresses the General Assembly’s formal appreciation and recognition.

Impact

H8514 has no direct regulatory or fiscal effect and does not amend Rhode Island statutes. Its legal impact is limited to an official legislative recognition of correctional officers and employees, with the Secretary of State authorized to transmit the resolution to named recipients. The practical effect is symbolic, serving as an institutional acknowledgment of the Department of Corrections workforce and the correctional officers' union.

Sentiment

The sentiment around the resolution is strongly supportive and appreciative. The bill text is framed entirely in commendatory terms, emphasizing honor, respect, integrity, and the hazards and sacrifices associated with correctional work. The available legislative context shows no recorded opposition, no committee controversy, and no votes indicating division, suggesting broad consensus for the measure.

Contention

There are no notable points of contention in the available record. Because the resolution is ceremonial and nonbinding, it does not appear to raise policy disputes, budget concerns, or legal objections. The only identifiable stakeholders are the Rhode Island Department of Corrections and the Rhode Island Brotherhood of Correctional Officers, both of whom are explicitly recognized by the resolution.