Rhode Island · 2026 Regular Session · Bill
HB 8081: AN ACT RELATING TO CRIMINAL PROCEDURE -- EXPUNGEMENT OF CRIMINAL RECORDS
In committee Official data
- Introduced
- In committee
- Passed one chamber
- Passed both chambers
- Enacted
Last official action: ·Record last updated:
Plain-language summary
HB 8081 is a bill introduced in the Rhode Island House on February 27, 2026. According to its official title, it concerns: AN ACT RELATING TO CRIMINAL PROCEDURE -- EXPUNGEMENT OF CRIMINAL RECORDS. Primary sponsor: Jay Edwards (Democratic), Bill O'Brien (Democratic), Tina Spears (Democratic), Matthew Dawson (Democratic), Justine Caldwell (Democratic), Carol McEntee (Democratic). Most recent recorded action (April 8, 2026): 04/08/2026 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.
Allows a law enforcement agency to consider expunged records when issuing a license or permit to carry a pistol or revolver.
Sponsors
Sponsors by party (alphabetical): Democratic 6
| Name | Role | Party | Chamber | District |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jay Edwards | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 70 |
| Bill O'Brien | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 54 |
| Tina Spears | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 36 |
| Matthew Dawson | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 65 |
| Justine Caldwell | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 30 |
| Carol McEntee | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 33 |
“Support” is shown only as formal sponsorship recorded by the legislature. Roll-call votes are available on the official bill page.
Recent official actions
- 04/08/2026 Committee recommended measure be held for further study
- 04/01/2026 Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration (04/08/2026)
- 02/27/2026 Introduced, referred to House Judiciary