Increases the maximum penalty for certain violations related to the cutting, removal, damage by injurious liquids or gases to trees, plants and shrubs on any public highway or public land under the jurisdiction of state agencies from $500 to $1,000.
Rep. Scott Slater
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryHB 7411 reduces the fee condominium associations can charge for updating a resale certificate after the initial issuance, capping it at $25 (down from $125). This directly affects condo associations, which must now limit update fees to $25, and unit owners selling their properties, who face lower costs for certificate updates. The bill requires associations to provide the necessary resale certificate information within 10 days of a request, with penalties for delays. It ensures sellers pay only the reduced fee for updates, while protecting purchasers from liability for outdated information in the certificate.
Maddy summaryThis bill designates March 24, 2026, as "National Diabetes Alert Day 2026" in Rhode Island to raise awareness about diabetes risks and prevention. It directly affects Rhode Island residents by encouraging them to learn about their diabetes risk and pursue preventive care. The resolution formally recognizes the importance of early awareness and supports the state Department of Health's efforts to promote healthy lifestyle choices. It does not create new laws or funding but serves as a commemorative measure to highlight public health priorities.
Ensures any public school with available seats, after completion of the initial enrollment period for students, shall make all open seats available to other students residing within the same school district.
Maddy summaryHB 8012, the Rhode Island Pedestrian Safety Act, allows cities and towns to use automated camera systems to detect specific traffic violations that endanger pedestrians. It authorizes fines of $50 for violations like failing to yield to pedestrians, stopping improperly at crosswalks, or ignoring stop signs, primarily in school zones, hospital areas, work zones, or high-pedestrian-risk locations. Registered vehicle owners - not drivers - are liable for fines, with municipalities required to send detailed violation notices including photos/videos and appeal options. For the first 30 days after implementation, cities must issue warnings instead of fines to educate drivers. The law does not create new traffic offenses but enables local enforcement of existing pedestrian safety rules through automated monitoring.
Prohibits insurance companies from paying a rate that is less than the approved Medicaid rate set by the executive office of health and human services.
Provides that the school year for all public schools, including traditional public and public charter schools, independent charter schools, and mayoral academies, would start on the same date of each calendar year.
Provides that for the period up until July 1, 2027, an applicant for a teaching certificate in Rhode Island would not be required to complete a standardized teacher's examination as a prerequisite to obtaining a teaching certificate.
Amends the Rhode Island Fair Housing Practices Act to clarify housing-status enforcement, ban discriminatory housing notices, align state law with federal standards and remove a ban on public discussion of fair housing cases.
Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution that recognizes and commends Providence Promise, a nonprofit organization in Rhode Island, for its work helping families save for college. The resolution highlights the organization's key activities, which include opening 529 college savings accounts for students, providing $100 seed deposits, and offering incentives for educational achievements. It also notes the group's efforts in financial literacy education, college readiness programs, and family engagement services aimed at supporting underserved communities. The resolution expresses appreciation for the organization's leadership and staff, and directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to Providence Promise.