Rep. Joseph McNamara

Gives teachers who takes an unpaid parental or medical leave during the year credit for a year of service for that school year if they served a minimum of 135 days.

Maddy summaryHB 5199, the Rhode Island Prekindergarten Education Act, seeks to expand and improve access to high-quality prekindergarten programs for three and four-year-olds throughout the state. It directs the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) to establish quality standards for these programs, which will operate through a mixed network including Head Start, public schools, and licensed child care providers. The bill also requires competitive wages and benefits for prekindergarten and Head Start teachers and establishes a working group to address workforce development in early childhood education. Beginning July 1, 2025, 30% of new pre-kindergarten expansion funds will be set aside to support early learning programs for infants and toddlers.

Maddy summaryHB 5286 proposes to exempt the sale of beer and malt beverages from sales and use tax. This bill would amend Section 44-18-7.1 of the General Laws, which pertains to sales and use taxes, to implement this change. If enacted, consumers would no longer pay sales tax on beer and malt beverages purchased at retail. This directly affects both individuals who buy these products and retailers responsible for collecting sales taxes.

Maddy summaryHouse Resolution 6328 reaffirms the friendship between the State of Rhode Island and Taiwan. It encourages the Rhode Island State Government to strengthen bilateral trade relations with Taiwan, including considering the opening of a trade office, and supports Taiwan's participation in international organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Maddy summaryHouse Resolution 6332 commemorates May 11-17, 2025, as "Quahog Week 2025" in the State of Rhode Island. It encourages Rhode Islanders to support the local quahog and seafood industry by participating in the week's events and enjoying fresh Rhode Island quahogs.

Maddy summaryHR 5789 proposes to appropriate $1,000,000 for the Meshanticut Lake paved walking path in Cranston, Rhode Island. This funding is specifically for the fiscal year 2025-2026. The purpose is to restore and enhance the walking path, ensuring it remains a safe and accessible recreational resource for the community.

Prohibits an insurer from imposing a requirement of prior authorization for any admission, item, service, treatment, test, exam, study, procedure, or any generic or brand name prescription drug ordered by a primary care provider.

Maddy summaryHouse Resolution 6324 recognizes May 6, 2025, as a "National Day of Reason" in the State of Rhode Island. This resolution encourages citizens, residents, and visitors to observe the day and focus on the importance of reason, critical thought, and free inquiry.

Maddy summaryHouse Resolution 6309 is a commemorative resolution that designates May 6th through May 12th, 2025, as "National Nurses Week" in the State of Rhode Island. It officially recognizes the contributions of registered nurses and encourages all state residents to honor them for their selfless care and efforts in improving the healthcare system. The resolution also directs the Secretary of State to transmit copies to relevant nursing organizations.

Phases in modifications to federal adjusted gross income over a four (4) year period for social security income, from twenty percent (20%) up to eighty percent (80%), beginning on or after January 1, 2026.