Rep. Brandon Potter

Maddy summaryThis bill designates May 2026 as Rhode Island Native Plant Month to raise public awareness about the benefits of native plants. It directly affects residents and organizations by encouraging them to learn about and use native species for landscaping. The resolution asks the Department of Environmental Management to promote the use of these plants to support local wildlife, improve soil and water quality, and reduce the need for pesticides. It does not change laws or allocate funding but serves as a commemorative measure to highlight environmental stewardship.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a resolution that formally honors the Rhode Island Medical Society for organizing the 2026 State House Advocacy Day event. It recognizes the physicians participating in this gathering for their work in patient care and their efforts to share medical expertise with state policymakers. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of this acknowledgment to the medical society, serving as an official record of appreciation rather than changing any laws or policies.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates May 10-16, 2026, as National Hospital Week in Rhode Island to honor healthcare workers and hospitals. It acknowledges the vital role hospitals play in providing medical care and supporting the state's economy. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a copy to the Hospital Association of Rhode Island to mark the observance.

Maddy summaryThis Rhode Island House resolution officially designates May 2026 as Jewish American Heritage Month within the state. The measure highlights the historical and cultural contributions of Jewish Americans to Rhode Island, including their roles in the economy, education, healthcare, and public service. It encourages residents to observe the month with ceremonies and educational programs while directing the Secretary of State to share copies of the resolution with relevant community leaders.

Creates a special legislative commission to study and provide recommendations relating to supporting community-based solutions to reduce the incarceration of women in Rhode Island.

Prohibits the Rhode Island medical assistance program from requiring prior authorization or a step therapy protocol for the coverage of a medication classified as an anticonvulsant or antipsychotic.

Updates the description of the early intervention program and the agency responsible for the program under Part C of the federal Individuals with disabilities education act.

Maddy summaryThis joint resolution appropriates $500,000 from state funds to the United Way of Rhode Island for operational support of its 2-1-1 human services hotline. The 2-1-1 system provides Rhode Islanders with free, 24/7 access to confidential assistance - covering housing, healthcare, food, disaster response, and other critical services - in nearly 200 languages. The funding directly supports the hotline’s existing operations, which handled over 190,000 requests in 2023-2024. It does not create new services or policy changes but ensures continued access to an established resource for residents seeking immediate help.

Adds a new category to the eligibility of childcare assistance to include a "protective services category" which would include foster or kinship children served through DCYF.

Authorizes the appropriation of the sum of $500,000 to Sojourner House to support its permanent housing development program that provides safe, secure housing to individuals and families fleeing from dangerous situations.