Rhode Island · 2026 Regular Session · Bill
HB 7431: AN ACT RELATING TO COURTS AND CIVIL PROCEDURE -- PROCEDURE GENERALLY -- CAUSES OF ACTION
In committee Official data
- Introduced
- In committee
- Passed one chamber
- Passed both chambers
- Enacted
Last official action: ·Record last updated:
Plain-language summary
HB 7431 is a bill introduced in the Rhode Island House on January 30, 2026. According to its official title, it concerns: AN ACT RELATING TO COURTS AND CIVIL PROCEDURE -- PROCEDURE GENERALLY -- CAUSES OF ACTION. Primary sponsor: Robert Craven (Democratic), Megan Cotter (Democratic), Anthony DeSimone (Democratic), Deb Fellela (Democratic), Earl Read (Democratic), Karen Alzate (Democratic), Carol McEntee (Democratic), Casimiro. Most recent recorded action (April 16, 2026): 04/16/2026 Committee recommended measure be held for further study.
Generated automatically from the official title, sponsor list, and status record only. It does not characterize the bill’s purpose or effects. How summaries are written
Official summary
Abstract published by the legislature (via Open States). Text as published by the legislature; reproduced verbatim.
Creates "Harter's Law" to extend the civil statute of limitations, for injuries resulting from first degree child abuse, to thirty-five (35) years and cap civil damages recovery at five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000).
Sponsors
Sponsors by party (alphabetical): Democratic 7
| Name | Role | Party | Chamber | District |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robert Craven | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 32 |
| Megan Cotter | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 39 |
| Anthony DeSimone | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 5 |
| Deb Fellela | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 43 |
| Earl Read | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 26 |
| Karen Alzate | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 60 |
| Carol McEntee | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 33 |
| Casimiro | Primary sponsor | Not applicable (committee) | — | — |
“Support” is shown only as formal sponsorship recorded by the legislature. Roll-call votes are available on the official bill page.
Recent official actions
- 04/16/2026 Committee recommended measure be held for further study
- 04/10/2026 Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration (04/16/2026)
- 01/30/2026 Introduced, referred to House Judiciary