Lie Detectors

The ACLU helped galvanize opposition to a bill that would have allowed police agencies to give lie detector tests to job applicants. Rhode Island has had a complete ban on the use of polygraph tests in employment for over 30 years, and evidence of its scientific validity has not improved since then. Although the bill to create an exemption for law enforcement positions passed out of House Labor Committee, it was recommitted due to significant opposition on the House floor.