The Providence City Council unanimously approved amendments to enhance civilian oversight of the Providence Police Department by expanding the authority of the Providence External Review Authority (PERA). This historic move increases PERA’s powers to review police conduct, aiming to improve transparency and accountability within the department. The updated ordinance grants PERA broader investigative capabilities and greater access to police records, enabling more thorough examinations of complaints against officers. Councilors emphasized that this expansion reflects the community’s demand for stronger police oversight and a commitment to building public trust. The decision marks a significant step toward reforming local law enforcement practices and ensuring independent civilian review. This development is expected to foster better police-community relations in Providence by providing an effective mechanism for addressing concerns about police behavior. The City Council’s unanimous vote highlights widespread support for the changes among elected officials and advocates for police accountability.