Rep. Chris Paplauskas

Maddy summaryHB 7378 requires local election boards to provide clearer voter information about ballot questions, early voting, and registration deadlines. It mandates posting local ballot questions (including bond costs and project details for financial measures) in public spaces, in local newspapers, or via mailed notices to households, and publishing all details on municipal websites for 25 days before elections. The bill also requires early voting locations and hours to be advertised in newspapers and posted online throughout the voting period, with accessibility compliance. These changes directly affect local election boards and voters by standardizing how election information is delivered.

Establishes the office of inspector general as an independent administrative agency charged with the responsibility to investigate, detect, and prevent fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement in the expenditure of public funds.

Requires the general assembly to cap expenditures based on a five (5) year increase in personal income or the annual rate of inflation based on the consumer price index.

Requires persons convicted of driving under influence or refusal to submit to chemical test, have an ignition interlock system installed in vehicle as part of sentence and to pay an assessment to pay for the interlock systems.

Requires that the primary election date, statutorily the eighth Tuesday preceding the biennial state elections, shall be held on the Wednesday when Labor Day is the day before said Tuesday. No other filing deadlines would be affected.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House Resolution that formally recognizes the 78th anniversary of Israel's independence and reaffirms the friendship between Rhode Island, the United States, and Israel. It does not change any laws or policies but instead serves as a symbolic statement acknowledging shared democratic values and the historical significance of Israel's establishment. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies to Jewish and Israeli leadership groups in Rhode Island and Boston.

Maddy summaryThis legislative resolution designates April 16, 2026, as "Community College of Rhode Island Day" within the state. It directly affects the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) by formally recognizing its role in higher education and workforce development. The bill does not alter any laws or funding but serves as a symbolic proclamation to honor the institution's contributions to the state's economy and residents. A copy of the resolution will be sent to the CCRI president to acknowledge the designation.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates April 23, 2026, as World Table Tennis Day in the state of Rhode Island. It encourages residents to participate in the sport to enjoy its health benefits and community spirit. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a copy of the document to the Rhode Island Table Tennis Association.

Maddy summaryHB 7806 allows retired state employees to be reemployed by municipalities without losing retirement benefits, removing previous restrictions that required suspending payments during such work. The bill specifically permits up to 75 working days (or 150 half-days) per calendar year in municipal roles, with no reduction in pension benefits or additional service credits. It applies broadly to all retired state employees seeking municipal employment, not just specific professions. This change simplifies reemployment rules while maintaining the annual day limit and ensuring retirement benefits remain intact.

Changes primary election to Wednesday if after Labor Day and does not mandate local boards of election to have voter registration drive at high school.