Bill Introduced Requiring Witnesses Testifying Before General Assembly to be Sworn In

State Representative Camille Vella-Wilkinson (D-Dist. 21, Warwick) has introduced a bill that would require witnesses offering testimony to General Assembly committees to be sworn in.

“The testimony we receive from experts and agents of state government is very serious. Lawmakers rely on that testimony and the information we receive to make decisions about bills that will have a profound impact on the people of Rhode Island. It’s not just idle opinion, and it should be taken very seriously,” said Vella-Wilkinson.

The bill has been referred to the House Judiciary Committee.

GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLAST

The Legislation

The bill (2020-H 7298) would require all witnesses who are representatives of a state department or agency appearing in their official capacity or any expert witness who is testifying before the General Assembly or any committee to be sworn before testifying.

Anyone testifying falsely would be guilty of perjury before the General Assembly.

Witnesses would be required to declare that they will testify truthfully, by oath or affirmation.

429 Too Many Requests

---

openresty