Rhode IslandS27152026 Regular SessionSenateWALLET

AN ACT RELATING TO CRIMINAL OFFENSES -- FRAUD AND FALSE DEALING .

Sponsored By: Valarie J. Lawson (Democratic)

Signed by Governor

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

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

Owners can sue over forged deeds

If someone files a false or forged deed or other paper that affects your property, you can sue the filer. You can recover your actual losses or $5,000, whichever is more, plus your costs and reasonable attorney’s fees.

Free alerts for new property filings

By January 1, 2028, every town offers a free property alert system. If you enroll a property, you get a notice within ten business days when any document is recorded that affects it. The notice states the document type, the property, and recording details. You can choose mail, text, call, or email for alerts.

Criminal penalties for title fraud

The law makes it a crime to record or offer forged or false deeds, mortgages, liens, or other property documents with intent to defraud. A first conviction is punishable by up to 10 years in prison and up to $50,000 in fines. A pattern of violations can bring up to 20 years and up to $100,000, and the court may order restitution to victims.

Notaries can refuse without proper ID

A notary may refuse to notarize if you do not provide information needed for identity proofing or you do not agree to pay for that identity check.

Tighter rules for remote property filings

Beginning September 1, 2027, towns only accept remote e-filings if the filer provides sufficient ID or a trusted submitter files it. Trusted submitters include a title company or agent, a Rhode Island lawyer, or a regulated bank. A court can void filings that break this rule. Recorders may temporarily delay a suspicious document, alert law enforcement, and notify the named notary. A court can lift a delay if the recorder was wrong, and clerks acting in good faith are not liable.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Valarie J. Lawson
Democratic • Senate

Cosponsors

Jacob Bissaillon
Democratic • Senate
Robert Britto
Democratic • Senate
John P. Burke
Democratic • Senate
Frank A. Ciccone, III
Democratic • Senate
Walter S. Felag Jr.
Democratic • Senate
Matthew L. LaMountain
Democratic • Senate
Mark P. McKenney
Democratic • Senate
Melissa A. Murray
Democratic • Senate
David P. Tikoian
Democratic • Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 137 • No: 0

House vote • 6/4/2026

FRAUD AND FALSE DEALING PASSAGE IN CONCURRENCE

Yes: 63 • No: 0

Senate vote • 5/28/2026

RELATING TO CRIMINAL OFFENSES -- FRAUD AND FALSE DEALING Passage

Yes: 37 • No: 0