On February 23, 2026, the state of Rhode Island made significant strides in bolstering its products liability laws to better protect consumers. The state legislature passed a series of bills aimed at holding manufacturers accountable for the safety of their products and ensuring that victims of defective products have easier access to legal recourse.One of the key pieces of legislation passed is a bill that extends the statute of limitations for products liability lawsuits. Under the new law, consumers now have up to ten years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit against a manufacturer, distributor, or retailer of a defective product. This extended time frame is intended to give victims more time to gather evidence and build their case, particularly in instances where the harm caused by a defective product may not be immediately apparent.Additionally, Rhode Island has also implemented stricter penalties for manufacturers who knowingly produce and distribute dangerous products. Companies found to have engaged in willful misconduct or gross negligence in the design, manufacture, or marketing of a product could face significant fines and even criminal charges. This heightened accountability is aimed at deterring manufacturers from cutting corners and putting consumer safety at risk.Furthermore, the state has established a dedicated task force to investigate and address emerging product safety issues. The task force will work in collaboration with consumer advocacy groups, industry stakeholders, and government agencies to identify potential hazards in the marketplace and take proactive steps to mitigate risks before they result in harm to consumers.These legislative developments have been welcomed by consumer advocates and legal experts alike, who see them as crucial steps towards ensuring that Rhode Island residents are protected from dangerous and defective products. By strengthening products liability laws and holding manufacturers accountable for the safety of their products, Rhode Island is setting a new standard for consumer protection in the region.