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HB 5644

AN ACT RELATING TO MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES -- NONTRANSPARENT WINDSHIELD AND WINDOWS

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Matthew Dawson

Rhode Island raises escalating fines for noncompliant window tint, applying to installers and owners: up to $250 first, $375 second, $500 third+; takes effect immediately.

05/23/2025 Referred to Senate Judiciary
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Bill Summary · HB 5644

Summary — HB 5644

Title: AN ACT RELATING TO MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES -- NONTRANSPARENT WINDSHIELD AND WINDOWS
Bill No.: HB 5644 (LC001768)
Introduced by: Rep. Matthew S. Dawson
Statute amended: R.I. Gen. Laws §31-23.3-5
Effective date: Upon passage

Purpose / Intent

The bill updates penalties for violations of Rhode Island's law prohibiting nontransparent (improperly tinted or “sunscreening”) windshields and windows. It creates escalating fines for repeat violations by both those who install noncompliant sunscreening material and those who own or operate vehicles with such material.

Key provisions

  • Amends §31-23.3-5 to set a three-tiered fine schedule for two classes of offenders:
    • (a) Persons, firms, corporations, or business entities that install sunscreening material that does not comply with the chapter.
    • (b) Persons, firms, corporations, or business entities that own or operate a motor vehicle with sunscreening material in violation of the chapter.
  • Fine amounts:
    • First violation: up to $250
    • Second violation: up to $375
    • Third or subsequent violation: up to $500
  • The act takes effect immediately upon passage.

Who would be affected

  • Vehicle owners and operators whose vehicles have noncompliant window tinting or other sunscreening materials.
  • Businesses and individuals that install sunscreening materials (e.g., auto glass/tint shops, mobile installers).
  • Law enforcement and courts enforcing and adjudicating these offenses.

Enforcement and impact

  • Establishes clear, escalating monetary penalties intended to deter repeat noncompliance.
  • Does not change technical standards for allowable tint or other substantive compliance requirements — only alters penalty structure in §31-23.3-5.
  • May increase citation revenue and administrative enforcement activity tied to window tint violations.

Legislative status / timeline

  • Introduced (referred to House Judiciary): 02/26/2025
  • Filed: 03/14/2025
  • Committee recommended passage: 03/18/2025
  • Passed House: 04/03/2025
  • Referred to Senate Judiciary: 05/23/2025
  • Remains pending further action in the Senate.

Notes: The bill’s text focuses solely on penalties for installation and possession of prohibited sunscreening material and does not modify definitions, allowable tint levels, or other regulatory requirements elsewhere in Chapter 31-23.3.

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

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