Defines an alternative nicotine product as any noncombustible product without tobacco leaf but nicotine from another source and also taxes alternative nicotine products at $2.00 per container up to 20 units.
Maddy summaryHB 8146 requires state agencies managing capital projects and budgets to submit additional performance and audit reports to the legislature. It directly affects state departments overseeing infrastructure spending and public projects by mandating more detailed tracking of how funds are used. Key provisions include new requirements for agencies to measure program outcomes and report audit findings more frequently. This bill aims to improve transparency in how state funds are spent on large projects without changing funding levels or creating new programs. The bill is currently in the House Finance committee after its February 27, 2026, introduction.
Restates the UTGR Master Contract and the Twin River-Tiverton Master Contract and consolidates the marketing program of each into the Consolidated Marketing Program.
Increases the amount of state aid distributed to the towns and cities through appropriation in lieu of property tax provisions applicable to certain private and state properties that are exempt from property tax.
Maddy summaryHB 7414 terminates the Rhode Island Department of Elementary and Secondary Education's extension of the Providence Public Schools (PPS) turnaround plan, which had been set to continue until October 15, 2027. The bill directly affects PPS by ending the state's extended oversight of the district's improvement efforts. It nullifies the department's recommendation to continue the plan, effectively ending the mandated turnaround status as of July 1, 2026. This is a procedural change that removes a specific administrative extension, not a new policy.
Maddy summaryHB 7502 would require the state, not local towns or cities, to handle all maintenance of sidewalks alongside state highways - such as repairs, cleaning, and replacement - except for snow and ice removal. This directly affects municipalities that previously managed sidewalk upkeep along state roads, shifting that responsibility to the state transportation department. The bill amends existing laws to clarify the state’s authority for sidewalk construction and maintenance, while explicitly excluding snow and ice removal from the state’s duties. It does not create new sidewalks but changes who maintains existing ones along state highways. The bill is currently pending in the House Finance Committee after introduction on February 4, 2026.
Requires that video or photography generated by artificial intelligence or “AI” that is posted on a public platform contain a marking disclosing that it has been generated by AI.
Maddy summaryHR 7707 is a legislative resolution appropriating $800,000 from the state treasury to support the operational costs of WaterFire Providence, a nonprofit arts organization. This funding, designated for fiscal year 2026-2027, directly supports WaterFire's year-round activities, including its signature river bonfire events and the WaterFire Arts Center. The resolution authorizes the state controller to pay the funds upon receipt of proper documentation. It does not alter existing laws or create new programs, but provides direct financial assistance to an organization cited for generating significant tourism revenue and community engagement in Providence.
Provides protections to children using online platforms by requiring platforms to turn off open chats by default for young users, and requires parent to approve children's financial transactions on gaming and social media sites.
Provides for paid leave for a state employee who donates an organ and duration of the leave is dependent on the type of donation and notice should be provided to the employer at least thirty (30) days prior to the leave.
