Letters & Testimony

A lot of the work we do doesn't result in a lawsuit or other formal measure.

For example, we receive a complaint from a concerned parent of a public school student, and we are able to resolve the issue with a formal letter to the school district. Another example, the RI Board of Elections proposes a new rule or regulation that may violate the U.S. Constitution, then reconsiders upon hearing our testimony on their proposal. Our "behind the scenes" work may not make it on the evening news or into your twitter feed, but these efforts are absolutely critical to protecting the rights of all in the Ocean State.

Filter Publications

LETTER: Re: N. Smithfield Nike Ban Resolution

The TLDR: "Just don't do it."

September 17, 2018

TESTIMONY: Ethics Commission Confidentially Regulations

The ACLU of RI testimony on the RI Ethics Commission’s proposed amendments to its rules governing “Complaints and Investigations.” The proposal would make confidential the Commission's investigatory reports, which are currently public even in cases where the Commission finds no probable cause to

August 21, 2018

LETTER: Re: PVD Student Zoning Ordinance

Letter to the Providence City Council about a zoning ordinance that would restrict more than three students from residing together in certain residential housing. Ultimately, this issue resulted in our filing a lawsuit.

September 8, 2015

TESTIMONY: Mitigating the Harm of the NICS Database

Rhode Island’s Behavioral Health and Firearms Safety Task Force was tasked with proposing “legislation and recommendations to support the state’s full participation in the NICS [National Instant Criminal Background Check System] Index.”

November 4, 2013