This bill designates the week of May 6th through May 12th, 2026, as National Nurses Week in the State of Rhode Island to honor the profession. It recognizes the critical role nurses play in healthcare, particularly in light of an aging population and the need for more qualified staff. The resolution also urges all residents to celebrate nurses' contributions throughout the year, not just during this specific week. Finally, it directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to the Rhode Island State Nurses Association.
This Senate resolution expresses condolences for the passing of Jeannette D. Alyward, a longtime resident of North Kingstown who served as the town's Clerk. The bill formally acknowledges her life and career, noting her decades of public service and her role as a devoted family member. It authorizes the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to her family as a gesture of respect.
This bill is a House resolution that congratulates Thawn Sherenté Harris on finishing the 2026 Boston Marathon and honors the legacy of his great-uncle, Ellison "Tarzan" Brown. The document recognizes Harris's achievement as a ceremonial act to commemorate the 90th anniversary of Brown's first marathon victory and highlights his specific performance details, such as running barefoot to mimic Brown's historic run. By transmitting a certified copy of this resolution to Harris, the bill formally acknowledges his perseverance and cultural significance without altering any laws or policies.
This Senate resolution celebrates the 160th anniversary of Child & Family, a Rhode Island nonprofit that has served children and families since 1866. The bill formally acknowledges the organization's extensive work in areas such as early childhood education, foster care, behavioral health, and supportive housing for older adults. It commends the staff, volunteers, and partners of Child & Family for their contributions to the community and directs the Secretary of State to send a copy of the resolution to the organization's leadership.
This Senate resolution officially designates the week of May 6 through May 12, 2026, as National Nurses Week in Rhode Island to honor the state's registered nurses. The measure commemorates Florence Nightingale's birthday and recognizes the critical role nurses play in healthcare, particularly in light of their performance during the pandemic and the growing demand for nursing services. It encourages all residents to express gratitude to nurses throughout the year and directs the Secretary of State to send copies of the resolution to relevant nursing organizations.
This Senate resolution reaffirms the friendship between Rhode Island and Taiwan while encouraging stronger bilateral ties in trade, defense, and culture. The bill proposes concrete steps such as establishing a Taiwan Caucus in the state legislature, exploring the creation of a Rhode Island trade office in Taiwan, and signing a memorandum of understanding to boost economic cooperation. It also urges the state government to support Taiwan's participation in international organizations like the World Health Organization and the International Civil Aviation Organization. Additionally, the resolution calls for concluding an agreement to avoid double taxation on trade and directs the Secretary of State to send copies of the document to relevant state and federal officials.
This Senate resolution officially designates May 11-17, 2026, as "Period Poverty Awareness Week" in Rhode Island to highlight the challenges faced by individuals who cannot afford menstrual products. The bill acknowledges that despite existing tax exemptions on period supplies, many women and girls, particularly those living in poverty, still struggle to access these essential items. It directs the Secretary of State to send copies of the resolution to local organizations like Amenity Aid and the Rhode Island Foundation to support ongoing efforts to raise awareness and advocate for expanded assistance programs.
This Senate Resolution officially designates May 2026 as "Fibromyalgia Awareness Month" and May 12, 2026, as "Fibromyalgia Awareness Day" in Rhode Island. The measure aims to increase public understanding of fibromyalgia, a chronic pain condition that affects people of all ages and often involves symptoms like fatigue, sleep disorders, and cognitive difficulties. By encouraging residents, healthcare professionals, and community leaders to participate, the bill seeks to reduce stigma and promote better support for those living with the illness. The resolution also directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to the National Fibromyalgia Association to highlight the state's commitment to the cause.
This Senate resolution officially designates the week of May 10 through May 16, 2026, as "National Police Week" within the State of Rhode Island. The measure aims to honor police and law enforcement officers who have died while performing their duties by aligning with the national observance established by federal proclamation. It directs the Secretary of State to send copies of the resolution to various police organizations and associations, including the Fraternal Order of Police and the Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association. This action serves as a formal state recognition of the sacrifices made by law enforcement rather than implementing new laws or policies.
Senate Resolution 3273 expresses the Rhode Island Senate's condolences on the death of Mary Lou Di Padua from Coventry. The resolution honors her life by detailing her roles as a wife, mother, business leader, and community member. It directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to her family.
This bill creates a new seven-member board of trustees to govern the Central Falls School District, replacing the current special state administrator and advisory group. The board members will be appointed by the state Board of Regents, with at least four required to be local residents and parents of current or former students in the district. Under this structure, the state commissioner of education retains significant oversight, including the power to intervene in school management if deemed necessary, while the new board handles policy-making, budget approval, and superintendent appointments. Additionally, the legislation amends state funding rules to provide direct state support for high-cost special education students and career and technical education programs.
This bill creates the Rhode Island Center for Employee Ownership (RICEO) to help small businesses transition to employee-owned models where workers hold shares in their companies. The center will operate under the existing Business Development Center and provide technical assistance, referrals, and guidance to business owners and employees interested in employee ownership structures. A new advisory committee with representatives from state agencies, labor groups, and business organizations will oversee the center's work and promote awareness of employee ownership as a solution to small business succession challenges. The legislation aims to support Rhode Island's small business community by offering resources that help retain businesses locally while creating new ownership opportunities for workers.
