Rep. Edith Ajello

Maddy summaryThis bill designates a specific bridge in Providence, Rhode Island, as the "George Nee Bridge." It directly affects the state's transportation infrastructure by officially naming the structure where U.S. Route 44 crosses over Interstate 95. The key provision requires that signs displaying the new name be installed using private funds, with their design and placement approved by the state Department of Transportation. Once passed, the act will take effect immediately to formalize this permanent name change.

Creates a special joint legislative commission to make a comprehensive study of Rhode Island's education funding formula and education finance system.

Requires that reimbursement rates for licensed mobile response and stabilization services be equal to or greater than the prevailing integrated state Medicaid rate for mobile response and stabilizations services as established by EOHHS.

Maddy summaryHB 7202 creates a new civil cause of action in Rhode Island, allowing individuals to sue federal officials or entities acting under federal law when they violate constitutional rights. The bill directly affects people whose rights were infringed by federal actions and blocks both state and federal immunities as defenses in these lawsuits. Key provisions include a three-year statute of limitations (with extensions for disabled plaintiffs), mandatory attorney fee awards for winning plaintiffs, and treatment of such cases as "violations of the Constitution" under federal law. The bill does not impose new duties on federal officials but enables Rhode Island courts to address alleged federal constitutional violations through civil lawsuits.

Authorizes the city of Providence to issue not more than $25,000,000 in general obligation bonds and notes to fund the providence housing trust fund to finance affordable multi-family housing projects in the city.

Requires a direct-to-consumer genetic testing company, as defined, to provide a consumer with certain information regarding the company’s policies and procedures regarding use of genetic data.

Authorizes the use of campaign funds for security related expenses, including home and office security systems and ongoing monitoring, in response to threats arising from their public service or candidacy.

Under the emergency fund for victims, increases the share of a victim’s total award that may be used for relocation related expenses but not increase total compensation available to a victim.

Places limits on the number of self-service checkout stations a grocery store can have and on the workload of employees assigned to monitor those checkout stations.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution that honors Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi for his leadership and service to the State of Rhode Island. It recognizes his specific legislative achievements, such as passing housing and healthcare laws, implementing tax reforms, and advancing climate initiatives during his tenure. The resolution formally thanks him for his contributions and directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the document to him.