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HR 5515

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION -- OF SUFFRAGE

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Edith Ajello and 9 co-sponsors

Rhode Island proposes a constitutional amendment on voting rights eligibility, requiring legislative approval and voter ratification via statewide referendum.

03/18/2025 Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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Bill Summary · HR 5515

Legislative bill overview

HR 5515 is a joint resolution that proposes a constitutional amendment regarding suffrage (voting rights) in Rhode Island. The measure would need to be approved by the legislature and then submitted to Rhode Island voters for ratification through a statewide referendum.

Why is this important

Constitutional amendments represent fundamental changes to state governance and voter eligibility rules. Since this involves suffrage, the outcome could directly affect who is permitted to vote in Rhode Island elections, making it significant for democratic participation and representation.

Potential points of contention

  • Lack of public detail: The bill's specific language is not provided, making it unclear whether it expands voting rights to new groups (non-citizens, formerly incarcerated individuals, youth) or restricts voting eligibility
  • Amendment process burden: Constitutional amendments require both legislative approval and voter ratification, representing a high procedural bar that suggests legislators view this as a substantial change
  • Partisan or demographic implications: Depending on the target population, suffrage changes could significantly alter the electorate composition and electoral outcomes in the state

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

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