Rep. Joseph McNamara

Maddy summaryHB 7728 allows Rhode Island to issue emergency teaching certificates without requiring an exam for up to five total school years. It permits an initial one-year certificate, renewable annually up to four more years (for a total of five), for individuals needing to teach while completing certification requirements. This change modifies existing rules by extending the maximum duration for emergency certification under the state's teacher certification framework. The bill would apply directly to educators seeking temporary teaching authorization in urgent staffing situations. The bill was introduced to the House Education Committee on February 12, 2026.

Increases the additional permit fee cap on residential construction that supports electronic permitting and residential construction workforce training from one hundred dollars ($100) to one hundred fifty dollars ($150).

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution expressing condolences for the passing of James M. Donelan, a former Rhode Island State Senator and attorney from Warwick. It formally acknowledges his public service career, including his 14 years in the state Senate where he sponsored the Good Driving Statute, and honors his personal life and family. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies to Donelan's family, serving as an official gesture of respect rather than a policy change.

Requires that court sentencing a person for first degree sexual assault of first degree child molestation, have the approval of the victim before imposing any negotiated sentence upon the offender.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution expressing condolences for the death of Michael D. Zarum, a lifelong Warwick resident who passed away in a pedestrian accident. The resolution acknowledges the circumstances of his death, noting that police found no evidence of speeding, impairment, or distracted driving as contributing factors. It highlights Zarum's community contributions, including his environmental advocacy work and civic engagement, while formally offering sympathy to his family. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies to Zarum's family.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution expressing condolences for Catherine "Kitty" Petrarca, who recently passed away. It directly affects her family and friends by formally acknowledging her life and contributions to her community. The resolution highlights her roles as a devoted mother, church volunteer, and veteran supporter, and authorizes the Secretary of State to send copies of the document to her family. It serves as an official tribute rather than a policy change, recognizing her personal legacy and faith.

Requires that student mentors in public schools be certified support educators, ensuring mentors have professional training, established student relationships, and access to skills and information needed to support student success.

Maddy summaryHB 7903 requires schools to create individualized academic plans for students diagnosed with a concussion or other brain injury. This directly affects students recovering from such injuries and their school staff. The key provision mandates that schools develop and implement specific accommodations to support these students' academic needs during recovery. The bill focuses on ensuring students receive necessary educational support following a brain injury diagnosis.

Requires all certified independent or district charter schools upon application for a renewal of said charter or an application for a new charter school to provide a union neutrality clause in the charter.

Creates a 13-member joint commission to study Rhode Island’s method of funding charter schools, and would report back to the Governor and the General Assembly by April 1, 2027, and would expire on July 1, 2027.