Rep. Jose Batista

Establishes a statewide "healthy school meals for all" universal school breakfast and lunch program in Rhode Island public schools phased in over 3 years.

In effect repeals the provisions of the newly enacted law prohibiting smoking in pari mutual facilities with the exception for businesses operating as a pari mutual facility smoking lounge.

Prohibits a peace officer, as defined in § 12-7-21, from employing threats, physical harm, deprivation, deception, coercion, or psychologically manipulative interrogation tactics during the custodial interrogation of a juvenile.

Allows foreign-trained dentists and dental hygienists to obtain limited licenses if they graduate from reputable dental colleges or universities, work under a supervising dentist, and pass a board-approved exam.

Submits the state's 2026 capital development program requesting the issuance of general obligation bonds totaling one hundred million dollars ($100,000,000) for approval of the electorate at the general election to be held in November, 2026.

Maddy summaryHB 8079 amends jury qualification laws to include individuals receiving public assistance benefits in the pool of eligible jurors. This change directly affects people currently excluded from jury service due to their receipt of public assistance, expanding who can be summoned for jury duty. The bill modifies statutory language to remove barriers preventing these individuals from being listed on jury rosters. It does not alter other eligibility requirements or create new exemptions.

Creates process for individual to voluntarily be either temporarily or indefinitely added to a list restricting their rights to purchase or possess firearms. Adds civil fines and misdemeanor for violations.

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.

Changes the application to purchase a firearm. Further, this act would require all persons seeking to possess a firearm except for police and military personnel to complete and pass a basic firearm safety training course.

Maddy summaryHB 7035 prohibits individuals from purchasing or taking possession of more than one firearm (defined as pistol, rifle, or shotgun) within any 30-day period. This directly affects most private firearm buyers, excluding specific exemptions like law enforcement officers, licensed dealers, government transfers, inheritance through probate, temporary gun range rentals, firearm safety courses, and curio collector transfers. Violations carry misdemeanor penalties for first offenses (up to 1 year in jail or $500 fine) and felony penalties for repeat offenses (up to 3 years in jail or $3,000 fine). The bill takes effect immediately upon passage.