RI lawmaker introduces bill allowing civil liability for concealing child sex abuse

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — A new bill introduced by a Rhode Island lawmaker would allow institutions, organizations, and individuals to be held civilly liable for concealing child sexual abuse. The legislation aims to hold those accountable who allegedly failed to properly supervise or who attempted to hide abuse involving minors.

The proposal was introduced by State Representative Carol Hagan McEntee, chair of the House Judiciary Committee.

McEntee’s sister, Ann Hagan Webb, is among those who have spoken publicly about abuse involving clergy in Rhode Island.

Proposed Law Would Expand Civil Liability

The proposal would apply retroactively for up to 35 years. It would also create a two year revival window allowing survivors to file civil claims between July 1, 2026 and June 30, 2028.

Supporters say the goal is to provide additional opportunities for survivors to pursue accountability through the courts.

Report Details Decades of Abuse

A recently released report examined decades of records involving the Diocese of Providence and identified 72 priests who were credibly accused of sexually abusing minors.

The findings outlined allegations of abuse spanning several decades and examined how church officials handled those claims.

Survivors who reviewed the report described the findings as evidence of a longstanding pattern in which allegations were not always addressed in a transparent manner.

Diocese Responds to Findings

Following the report’s release, Bruce Lewandowski acknowledged past misconduct within the diocese and said the church remains committed to protecting children through safeguards currently in place.

Church leaders also stated that there are no clergy members with credible accusations who remain in active ministry in Rhode Island.

The Diocese of Providence has also raised concerns about the proposed legislation in response to the report.

Additional Legislative Proposals Introduced

In addition to the accountability bill, McEntee has introduced three other proposals following the release of the report.

One proposal would allow grand juries to issue reports and create a process for review and acceptance by the Superior Court.

Another measure would extend the statute of limitations for second degree sexual assault. Under the proposal, charges could be filed within 10 years of the offense or within 10 years after a victim turns 18, whichever occurs later.

A third bill would expand the definition of educational programs under Rhode Island’s Abused and Neglected Children law. The change would include charter schools, parochial schools, camps, after school programs, and other youth organizations that work with children.

The proposal would also update reporting requirements related to suspected abuse or neglect.

Bills Scheduled for Committee Review

McEntee’s primary proposal previously passed the House but did not advance in the Senate.

All four proposals are scheduled to be reviewed again by the House Judiciary Committee on March 12.

The proposed bill, 2026-H 7200, can be read here.