Representative Jose F. Batista

Jose F. Batista is a Democratic member of the Rhode Island House of Representatives, representing District 12 in Providence's South Side and Washington Park neighborhoods since January 2021. He is a lawyer and advocate for criminal justice reform, known for sponsoring legislation on police body cameras and expanding jury service eligibility.

Born April 15, 1988, Representative Batista is a lifelong resident of South Providence and the oldest of six children of immigrants from the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico. A leader in criminal justice reform, he has introduced bills to reform policing, shift drug laws toward treatment over criminalization, and address mass incarceration. Notable achievements include sponsoring Rhode Island's statewide police body camera program in his first term and passing 2023 legislation allowing those on parole, probation, or suspended sentences to serve on juries, plus modernizing laws for prisoners to save work earnings. He serves on the House Judiciary, Municipal Government & Housing, and Oversight Committees. Prior to election, he was executive director of the Providence External Review Authority , from which he was fired in 2020 after releasing videos of police brutality against PERA's decision.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Graduated from Classical High School , Bryant University , and Roger Williams University School of Law . Serves as adjunct professor at Bryant University and RWU Law . Completed Leadership Rhode Island's Rho II class .
• Political and Professional Experience: Began career at Rhode Island Public Defender, representing indigent clients. Opened solo law practice in South Providence , specializing in bilingual representation. Served as assistant city solicitor in Central Falls, leading the Nuisance Property Task Force. Elected November 3, 2020, defeating primary challenger and unopposed in general election; term extends to January 2027.