Authorizes the sale of THC-infused beverages to be regulated by the DBR division of commercial licensing. It also establishes licensing and an endorsement process for wholesale and retail THC-infused beverages.
Maddy summaryHB 5820 amends Rhode Island's renewable energy standard, requiring electricity providers to gradually increase the share of renewable energy in their retail sales to end-use customers. Starting in 2007, providers must meet rising annual targets (e.g., 4% in 2023, 5% in 2024, and 9.5% by 2043), with a cap of 2% from existing renewable sources. The bill allows compliance through renewable energy certificates or alternative payments to a development fund, while exempting pre-2022 power contracts from later targets. It aims to achieve 100% renewable electricity for Rhode Island by 2043.
Requires the public utilities commission to produce a report each January containing an analysis of the electric grid and its ability to supply the electricity needs to power cars, buildings and heat homes within the state.
Establishes a prekindergarten seat finder to support families in accessing high quality early childhood education programs for three (3) and four (4) year old children.
Maddy summaryHB 5277 proposes replacing traditional political party primaries with a unified "primary general election" for all state and municipal offices. This new system would require voters to select two candidates per office (or four for two vacancies) in a single primary, with the top vote-getters advancing to the general election ballot. Candidates would retain their party designation on ballots but could not change it after the primary, and the general election ballot order would mirror the primary results. The bill directly affects all candidates running for elected office and aims to streamline the nomination process by eliminating separate party primaries.
Extends certain protocols applicable to vehicle manufacturers to their distributors and factory branches, updates definitions relative to common entities and sales.
Maddy summaryHB 5814 requires Rhode Island's Public Utilities Commission (PUC) and Division of Public Utilities and Carriers (DPUC) to complete a comprehensive study by April 30, 2026, aimed at identifying ways to lower energy rates for consumers. The study must review all state energy programs to find those increasing costs, compare Rhode Island's rates with other states, and recommend eliminating policies that raise bills. It allocates $100,000 for consultants to conduct this research and mandates that future energy-related legislation include "energy notes" showing cost impacts, similar to fiscal notes. This bill directly affects Rhode Island ratepayers and state energy policy through its focus on transparent cost analysis and program evaluation.
Authorizes early voting for the ten (10) calendar days except the second weekend prior immediately preceding election day, while requiring, as is practicable, that all the election day protections and procedures be afforded to early voters.
Maddy summaryHB 5137 requires the state board of elections to verify the U.S. citizenship status of every person on the voter registration list. It mandates comparing registrations against state DMV records and federal Social Security databases to ensure only citizens are registered. Before adding any new registration, the board must confirm citizenship using these databases. Unverified registrations will be removed after notifying the voter and providing an opportunity to submit proof of citizenship. The bill applies to all voter registrations statewide and takes effect upon passage.
Adds a provision that allows a tenant to pay the last month's rent or any other prepaid rent. It also increases the amount that a security deposit can be requested from one to two (2) months of rent.
