Rep. Brandon Potter

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates February 7-14, 2025, as "Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week" in Rhode Island, urging residents to recognize the prevalence of congenital heart defects in infants (affecting roughly 1 in 110 births) and support medical efforts. It does not create new laws, allocate funding, or directly impact specific groups - it serves as a symbolic observance to raise public awareness about this health issue.

Maddy summaryHR 5412 is a House resolution congratulating Cranston Police Chief Michael J. Winquist on his induction into the Rhode Island Criminal Justice Hall of Fame, Class of 2024. The resolution recognizes his 35-year law enforcement career with the Rhode Island State Police and Cranston Police Department, highlighting his leadership in crime investigations, development of the state’s Fusion Center, and community safety initiatives. It formally thanks him for protecting Rhode Island residents and property throughout his service. As a procedural resolution, it does not create new laws or policies but serves as a formal acknowledgment of his contributions.

Requires DOA provide inventory of all state agencies using artificial intelligence (AI); establishes a 13 member permanent commission to monitor the use of AI in state government and makes recommendations for state government policy and other decisions.

Establishes a digital electronics right to repair, which would allow for digital electronic equipment and parts that are sold in this state on or after January 1, 2026, to be repaired at an independent repair provider

Amends current law on controlled substances to permit psilocybin to be cultivated within a person's residence for personal use and contingent on the US FDA's program, mandate that RI department of health establish rules regulations.

Establishes the process to provide a legal mechanism whereby a terminally ill patient may choose to end their life using medications prescribed by a physician.

Requires that all cosmetics manufactured, sold, delivered, held or offered for sale contain a label that completely and accurately list all of their component ingredients.

Maddy summaryHB 5321 establishes the Rhode Island Child Care for All Act, creating a new Office for Early Learning within the state government by June 2027 to manage the state's child care system. It directly affects families with young children (capping child care costs at 7% of income), child care providers, and early educators by providing direct funding to cover costs not met by family fees. Key provisions include requiring providers to improve educator wages to match K-12 standards, expanding access in underserved areas, and ensuring care for children with disabilities. The bill aims to make high-quality child care affordable and accessible statewide while consolidating oversight from multiple departments.

Bans the sale of parrots at pet stores from a breeder or broker. The pet store may sell parrots obtained from animal care facilities or animal rescue organizations. The sale would also be prohibited at any outdoor markets or retail parking lots.

Maddy summaryHB 5102 creates a committee to develop regulations for homeless shelters in Rhode Island, directly affecting shelters operating across the state. The committee - comprising shelter providers, advocates, residents, and housing officials - will draft standards covering admission policies, resident rights (including no fees or discrimination), health/safety protocols, and emergency shelter requirements. Key provisions mandate shelters provide dignified services, protect resident privacy, ensure access to food and medical care, and involve residents in program planning. The bill establishes a process for setting these standards but does not change current shelter operations until regulations are finalized and adopted.