Providence Mayor Brett P. Smiley signed an executive order aimed at strengthening voter protections and safeguarding election integrity ahead of the 2026 election. The order mandates that all election-related requests from federal agencies be referred to the Office of the City Solicitor for immediate legal review before any response or release of voter information. City employees are prohibited from independently handling such requests without authorization. The order emphasizes protecting personally identifiable voter data, restricting voluntary disclosure of election records, and limiting City resources from assisting federal election investigations unless legally required. It also establishes protocols to address voter intimidation and immigration enforcement activities near polling sites, including a dedicated Election Hotline, legal support at polling locations, and a police presence to ensure voter safety. The order enforces compliance with laws restricting immigration officials’ proximity to polling places and mandates accessibility measures under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Providence will publicly disclose significant federal election-related requests and the legal rationale for its responses unless prohibited by law. Central Falls Mayor Maria Rivera praised the initiative and plans to implement similar protections in her city.