PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — While Rhode Island has the strictest rules in New England when it comes to tinted windows, state Rep. Matt Dawson said the penalties don't hold repeat offenders accountable. As it stands, tinted windows are largely illegal in Rhode Island. A Target 12 analysis found po lice in the state have issued more than 7,500 violations over the last three years. Drivers caught with tinted windows can face a fine of up to $250 and a court summons, where they have to prove they have removed the tint. "What ends up happening is they take [the tint] off, get the dismissal, put it back on," Dawson said. "So it really is an infraction that for many people has no consequence." Dawson has proposed a bill that would add a penalty scale to deter repeat violators. The second violation would be a $375 fine. After that, each violation would cost offenders $500. TARGET 12: Thousands of tickets issued in RI due to strict law against dark window tint The bill made it through the House Judiciary Committee in March and is set to be voted on Thursday. But some argue that Rhode Island's tinted window law is already too strict. Michael Valentin, the owner of Bling Bling Auto Solutions, said car windows in Massachusetts are allowed to be much darker compared to Rhode Island. "A lot of customers want privacy," he said. "There's a lot of people that have skin problems, eye problems." But Woonsocket Police Chief Thomas Oates, the president of the RI Police Chiefs Association, said tinted windows pose a safety risk for law enforcement. "You can't see any of the activity that's going on in the car," he explained. "Whether they have any firearms, whether they're hiding contraband at all ... the safety issue outweighs any argument." Download the WPRI 12 and Pinpoint Weather 12 apps to get breaking news and weather alerts. Watch 12 News Now on WPRI.com or with the new 12+ smart TV app. Follow us on social media:                     Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup SIGN UP NOW ...read more read less