In its November issue, Child magazine ranks Rhode Island first in the nation in keeping its children safe and secure.
“The smallest state in the nation finished first in our ranking,” the magazine said, “not only because it offers an array of comprehensive laws to protect kids, but also because it’s been among the first states to enact them.”
Rhode Island's Market Has Changed. Developers, Builders, Investors and Sellers Must Change With It.
By Emilio DiSpirito IV License Partner | Engel & Völkers Oceanside Leader | The DiSpirito…
Learn More
Gov. Donald L. Carcieri responded with a statement hailing what he called the success of the state’s efforts to create an environment where children can grow up safely. “This ranking by a respected national magazine shows the high priority we place on children’s issues,” he said. “… I’m proud of the work that we have done to protect Rhode Island children.”
Child magazine singled out Rhode Island in a number of areas. Among the accomplishments it cited were:
* A law requiring a 25-year prison sentence, plus lifetime electronic monitoring, for anyone convicted of first-degree child molestation.
* The nation’s highest percentage of electronic prescriptions, which the magazine cites as an important step in guarding against medical errors.
* Playground safety improvements, made between 2000 and 2004, as the state implemented age-appropriate design, fall surfacing and maintenance.
* A law making helmets mandatory for children on scooters.
* A law making car booster seats mandatory for children 6 and younger.
* The state’s low rate – about half the national average – of transportation-related deaths among children.
In its six-month review of all 50 states, Child magazine examined criteria including crime rates; protection from sex offenders; quality and availability and quality of emergency medicine specialists; laws regarding booster seats, bike helmets and window guards; and playground quality.
The magazine’s article can be viewed at www.governor.ri.gov.
