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HB 8046

AN ACT RELATING TO COURTS AND CIVIL PROCEDURE--PROCEDURE GENERALLY -- FEES

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Sam Azzinaro and 8 co-sponsors

Rhode Island bill modifying court fees and civil procedure costs to adjust litigation expenses and court funding mechanisms.

06/26/2026 Effective without Governor's signature
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 8046

Legislative bill overview

HB 8046 is a Rhode Island bill relating to court fees and civil procedure costs. Without access to the bill's specific text, it appears designed to modify fee structures or regulations governing court procedures and civil litigation expenses. The bill is currently in early legislative stages following referral to the House Judiciary Committee.

Why is this important

Court fees directly affect access to justice by influencing whether individuals and small businesses can afford to pursue or defend legal claims. Changes to fee structures can either reduce barriers to litigation or generate additional court revenue, with meaningful consequences for Rhode Island residents' ability to use the judicial system.

Potential points of contention

  • Fee increases vs. accessibility – Whether proposed fees burden low-income individuals seeking legal remedies or constitute reasonable cost-recovery measures
  • Fiscal impact on courts – Whether fee changes adequately fund court operations or create administrative burdens
  • Disproportionate effects – How modified fees might differentially impact small businesses, vulnerable populations, or specific types of civil cases

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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