Central Falls Lawmaker's Bid To Nix Senate Dress Code Falls Short

CENTRAL FALLS — A freshman senator from Central Falls gained some support Tuesday in his contention that a new State Senate dress code should not be adopted over concerns about race and community — but ultimately, a bid by 31-year-old Sen. Jonathon Acosta to eliminate the professional dress requirement fell short.

"The president of the Senate shall preserve decorum and order in the chamber. While in the Senate chamber, members, staff and guests shall be required to dress in proper and appropriate attire, such as blouses, dress slacks and collared shirts with accompanying jacket," the proposal read.

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Last week before the Senate Rules, Government Ethics and Oversight Committee, Acosta argued that the dress code "is all stuff that connotes white collar, white people." He said that he was not elected to wear a tie and blazer, and that he looks like members of the community that he represents, according to a report by The Providence Journal.

On Tuesday before the full Senate, several colleagues spoke up in support of Acosta's proposal. However, proponents lost their bid to eliminate the dress code from the 2021-22 rules package in a 29-7 vote. The Senate did, however, agree to remove the dress requirement for "guests."

Patch on Thursday asked Acosta for comment and if he planned on buying a new outfit.

"I'm disappointed, but not surprised by the decision," he responded. "I don't need to buy new clothes."

Read More in The Providence Journal