Rep. Brandon Potter

Maddy summaryThis bill funds Rhode Island's Baby Bonds program by allocating $3,000 annually per eligible newborn (born in the prior calendar year) from unclaimed property funds, rather than using taxpayer dollars. It directs the state administrator to set aside this amount from unclaimed intangible/tangible property remittances before depositing remaining funds into the general fund. The program provides financial resources to newborns in Rhode Island through this dedicated funding stream. The law takes effect July 1, 2027.

Amends current law so that private side lead service replacement costs, financed by the water supplier's customers that may be eligible for reimbursement from the state, would no longer be subject to appropriation by the general assembly.

Maddy summaryHR 8209 is a joint resolution that authorizes the federal government to provide $250,000 in direct funding to the Refugee Dream Center (RDC). This bill directly affects the RDC, a nonprofit organization supporting refugees, by providing it with a specific sum of money for its operations. The key provision is a one-time appropriation of $250,000, which the RDC would use to support its refugee assistance programs. The bill was introduced on February 27, 2026, and referred to the House Finance Committee.

Enacts the RI individual market affordability act of 2026 to establish a program to help reduce out-of-pocket costs for low- and moderate-income consumers enrolled in individual health insurance coverage through the RI health benefits exchange.

Establishes a child tax credit in the amount of six hundred fifty dollars ($650) for eligible taxpayers adjusted for inflation annually commencing January 1, 2027.

Maddy summaryHB 8192 imposes a 2% tax on the portion of a private college's endowment exceeding $1 billion. It directly affects private institutions of higher education with endowments over $1 billion, requiring them to pay this tax on the amount above that threshold. The bill's key provision is the specific tax rate applied to the excess value, creating a new revenue source for the state. Introduced on February 27, 2026, it is currently under review by the House Finance committee.

Exempts from sales tax the amount paid for a parking space to a patron for one hour or less, in or on a parking facility on which a commercial establishment is located.

Maddy summaryHB 7313 creates a new 3% tax rate on Rhode Island taxable income exceeding $640,000 (adjusted for inflation in 2026 dollars) for tax years beginning in 2027 and later. This applies specifically to high-income earners, including individuals, estates, and trusts with annual income above this threshold. The bill amends existing tax code to add this rate to the current progressive brackets, which already include rates up to 9.9% for income over $349,700. It does not affect past tax years and will be adjusted for inflation annually as required by law.

Maddy summaryThis Rhode Island House resolution designates May 4, 2026, as a "National Day of Reason" to honor the role of critical thinking in scientific and social progress. The bill encourages citizens to focus on reason, the scientific method, and free inquiry when addressing issues like climate change and civil liberties. It directs the Secretary of State to send copies of the resolution to two specified individuals, John Mertus and Joe Burgio.

Expands the deinstitutionalization subsidy aid program in the department of behavioral healthcare, developmental disabilities and hospitals to include adoptive parent(s) or siblings(s).