Rhode IslandH85042026 Regular SessionHouse

AN ACT RELATING TO LABOR AND LABOR RELATIONS -- FAIR EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES .

Sponsored By: Leonela Felix (Democratic)

Signed by Governor

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

5 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.

More small and household employers covered

The law covers any employer with four or more employees. State and local governments count as employers too. People who work in domestic service are now protected by this law. Households that hire domestic workers must follow these employment protections. The exception for people employed by a parent, spouse, or child remains.

Stronger protections for pregnancy, hair, gender, age

Sex discrimination includes pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions. Employers must give the same pay, leave, benefits, and job terms as they give others with similar limits at work. Race protections now cover hair texture and protective hairstyles like locks, braids, twists, and Afros. The law protects your gender identity or expression, whether actual or perceived. Age rules start at 40 years old.

Disability accommodation terms now consistent

The law uses the same meanings for auxiliary aids and services, reasonable accommodation, and undue hardship as in state disability law. Employers and agencies must apply these uniform standards when handling disability accommodations. This makes the process clearer for workers with disabilities.

Limited hiring preference for religious groups

Religious corporations, associations, schools, or societies may hire people of their own religion for work tied to carrying on their activities. This preference is limited to those roles and to applicants of that religion.

New rules for convictions and gag clauses

The law defines a conviction as a guilty verdict or a guilty or nolo contendere plea. Employers must use this meaning when they review criminal history for jobs. The law also defines non-disparagement agreements as contracts that limit speaking badly about the other party. This helps workers spot gag terms in job or settlement papers.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Leonela Felix
Democratic • House

Cosponsors

Karen Alzate
Democratic • House
Cherie L. Cruz
Democratic • House
Grace Diaz
Democratic • House
John J. Lombardi
Democratic • House
David Morales
Democratic • House
Jennifer A. Stewart
Democratic • House
Teresa A. Tanzi
Democratic • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 60 • No: 9

House vote • 6/3/2026

FAIR EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES PASSAGE