Rhode Island § 42-161-3 - Statewide Body-Worn Camera Program
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 42-161-3 — Statewide Body-Worn Camera Program, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 42-161-3. Statewide Body-Worn Camera Program
R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-161-3
§ 42-161-3. Powers of attorney general and department of public safety — Establishment of grant program.
(a) The director of the department of public safety is hereby authorized, within available funds, to award grants and other forms of funding to facilitate the adoption of body-worn cameras by Rhode Island police departments. The director of the department of public safety may also coordinate state applications for federal funds available for body-worn camera adoption.
(b) The director of the department of public safety may, in coordination with the department of administration, facilitate body-worn camera procurement by Rhode Island police departments through state master price agreement contracts in accordance with § 37-2-56.
(c) The attorney general and the director of the department of public safety, in consultation with the Rhode Island police chiefs’ association, are responsible for developing statewide policies, procedures, and guidelines for the use and operation of body-worn cameras.
(d) The attorney general and the director of the department of public safety, in consultation with the Rhode Island police chiefs’ association, may survey and assess police department body-worn camera needs, evaluate body-worn camera solutions and budgetary costs, and facilitate the provision of technical assistance for Rhode Island police departments adopting body-worn cameras.
(e) All appropriations in support of provisions of this chapter shall be housed within the department of public safety.
(f) No money appropriated in the state budget shall be awarded for Rhode Island police department body-worn camera expenses incurred before or after the state-supported implementation period.
(g) No money appropriated in the state budget shall be distributed for Rhode Island police department body-worn camera expenses before rules and regulations are promulgated pursuant to § 42-161-4.
History of Section.
P.L. 2021, ch. 228, § 1, effective July 8, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 229, § 1, effective
July 8, 2021.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 42-161-3
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 42-161-3 cover?
Section 42-161-3 ("Statewide Body-Worn Camera Program") is part of the Rhode Island General Laws, the codified statutory law of Rhode Island. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Rhode Island § 42-161-3?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 42-161-3" (Rhode Island). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Rhode Island law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Rhode Island official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Rhode Island attorney.
How does Rhode Island § 42-161-3 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Rhode Island can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Rhode Island.