Rep. Joseph Solomon

Maddy summaryHouse Resolution 6302 proclaims May 2025 as "Older Americans Month" in the State of Rhode Island. This resolution formally recognizes the contributions of older adults to the state and authorizes the Secretary of State to transmit a copy to the Director of the Rhode Island Office of Healthy Aging.

Maddy summaryHR 6078 is a joint resolution that appropriates $1,000,000 to 401 Tech Bridge. This funding is designated to study and explore seagliders in Rhode Island, in conjunction with the Rhode Island Seaglider Initiative (RISI). The bill directs 401 Tech Bridge to conduct a feasibility study to understand and assess the use and operation of these all-electric, passenger-carrying vehicles within the state. The aim is to determine how seagliders could benefit Rhode Island's economy and environment.

Maddy summaryThis bill expands educational benefits for members of the Rhode Island National Guard and their immediate family dependents. It allows National Guard members in good standing to allocate their tuition assistance benefits, which cover up to five courses per semester, to their dependents for use at Rhode Island state colleges or universities. To receive these benefits, both the National Guard member must remain in good standing with the Guard, and the student (member or dependent) must be in good academic standing. Participants agree to one year of additional service in the National Guard for every twelve course credits received, with provisions for repayment if service obligations or academic requirements are not met.

Permits retired superior court magistrates to be assigned to perform service pursuant to §§ 8-2-11.1, 8-2-39, 8-2-39.1 or 8-2-39.2 and be reemployed by the superior court without any forfeiture or reduction of any retirement benefits.

Maddy summaryHB 5466 proposes to increase the monthly personal needs allowance for residents in nursing facilities who receive medical assistance. The bill would raise this allowance from seventy-five dollars ($75.00) to one hundred dollars ($100.00) per month. This change directly affects these nursing facility residents by providing them with an additional $25 each month for their personal expenses. The act is scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Maddy summaryThis House Resolution extends the deepest sympathy and condolences of the Rhode Island House of Representatives on the passing of Gretchen Dow Simpson, a highly acclaimed artist known for her New Yorker covers and contributions to the art community. A certified copy of the resolution will be transmitted to her family.

Maddy summaryHouse Bill 6188, known as the "Linda DaLomba Purple Alert Act," establishes a statewide emergency alert system for missing adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities. This system, called a "Purple Alert," will publicly disseminate information through a partnership between law enforcement, media outlets, and other entities. An alert can be activated when an adult with a documented intellectual disability is missing, their whereabouts are unknown, and their disappearance indicates a credible threat of danger. The State Police will develop protocols for activating these alerts, and the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency will conduct annual reviews and mandatory training for participating agencies.

Maddy summaryHouse Resolution 6262 proclaims May of 2025 as "Motorcycle Awareness Month" in the State of Rhode Island. This resolution urges all motorists to avoid distracted driving and aims to raise awareness about motorcycle safety for both riders and other drivers.

Maddy summaryHB 5496 proposes changes to the licensing and disciplinary processes for nurses, directly affecting licensed nurses, practical nurses, and the Board of Nurse Registration and Nursing Education. The bill alters the composition of the Board of Nursing by adjusting the number of professional and practical nurse members and extending term limits. It expands the Board's powers to include requiring licensees to undergo physical or psychiatric examinations if impairment is suspected, and referring them to non-disciplinary alternative programs. Additionally, it updates language regarding practical nurse qualifications and license renewal notices.

Allows any peace officer working in a Rhode Island school as a full or part-time resource officer to work in excess of the seventy-five (75) working days in a calendar year, and not have an interruption in their benefits.