Rep. David Bennett

Maddy summaryThis bill officially designates April 2026 as Alcohol Awareness Month in Rhode Island to highlight the dangers of alcohol abuse and promote public education. The resolution cites statistics on alcohol-related health risks, economic costs, and emergency room visits to underscore the need for community outreach. It directs the Secretary of State to send copies of the proclamation to the Governor and various state health officials. The measure is a symbolic gesture intended to encourage participation in existing awareness initiatives rather than implementing new laws or policies.

Creates a state-run pilot program in Rhode Island that provides paid, low-barrier employment to individuals experiencing homelessness for community beautification and cleanup projects while connecting participants to supportive services.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution that congratulates AHEPA Chapter 106 "Sophocles" of Providence on its 100th anniversary. The resolution recognizes the chapter's century-long history of service to the Greek-American community in Rhode Island, including its founding in 1926, its scholarship programs, and its partnerships with local institutions. The text authorizes the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to the chapter's president, Mr. George Coclin. This is a commemorative measure that honors the organization's legacy without proposing new laws or policies.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a ceremonial resolution that celebrates the 172nd anniversary of the 1854 Treaty of Peace and Amity between the United States and Japan. It formally declares March 31 as "Japan Day" in Rhode Island to honor the historical diplomatic relationship between the two nations. The resolution recognizes various cultural, economic, and educational partnerships between Rhode Island and Japan, including business investments, academic exchanges, and community events. It authorizes the Secretary of State to send copies of the resolution to various state and federal officials, as well as the Japanese Consul General.

Modifies the definition of “intentionally added PFAS” to mean PFAS that are deliberately added during the manufacturing of a covered product to perform a specific function.

Maddy summaryHB 7985 would require individuals making public records requests to provide their identifying information. This bill directly affects anyone seeking public records from government agencies by adding a new step to the request process. The key provision mandates that requesters share personal details like name or contact information when submitting a request. The bill is currently in the early stages, having been introduced on February 27, 2026, and referred to the House State Government & Elections committee.

Require that routine childhood and adult immunization vaccine recommendations that are developed from evidence based, medically sound scientific research by the department of health.

Maddy summaryHB 7627 extends early intervention services under Rhode Island's Part C program for children with special health care needs whose third birthday falls between May 1 and August 31. This change prevents a service gap by allowing these children to remain in early intervention until September 1 after their third birthday, bridging to preschool services. The bill directly affects families of children with developmental disabilities born in this window, ensuring continuity of care without interruption. It aligns with federal law allowing states to extend such services and requires the state to implement this by January 2028, following a 2026 plan development phase.

Maddy summaryHB 7773 modifies how workers' compensation reimbursement works when an injured employee recovers damages from a third party (like another company or individual responsible for the injury). It requires employees to reimburse employers or insurers for workers' comp payments received, but excludes reimbursement for pain and suffering, loss of consortium, or other non-compensable damages. If third-party recovery exceeds compensation paid, benefits may be suspended for a period calculated by dividing the excess by the employee’s weekly rate, though medical benefits continue. The bill also sets a 2-year and 8-month deadline for employees to sue third parties, after which employers can pursue claims and seek reimbursement.

Updates disability parking space signage and enables municipalities to participate in the parking mobility app program where individuals submit photos on the app of vehicles parked in spaces designated for individuals with disabilities.