Preemployment Screening and Testing: Rhode Island

Federal law and guidance on this subject should be reviewed together with this section.

Author: Jessica Sussman

Summary

• Rhode Island employers may not inquire about an applicant's arrest record subject to very limited exceptions. See Arrest and Conviction Records.
• Certain types of employers must conduct background checks of job applicants as a condition of employment. See Mandatory Background Checks.
• Employers should be aware that Rhode Island recognizes a cause of action for negligent hiring. See Negligent Hiring.
• Rhode Island prohibits employers from inquiring into an applicant's salary history. See Salary History Inquiries.
• Rhode Island law is strict when it comes to regulating drug testing by employers. See Drug Testing.
• The Ocean State bans employers from engaging in certain other preemployment tests. See Genetic Testing.