Requires that all agencies' final rules, promulgated pursuant to the administrative procedures act, be approved by general assembly action, but in no case later than December 31 of the year it is promulgated before it can become effective.
Permits every municipality in the state to offer a homestead tax exemption of up to 20% of assessed value on residential properties, and also provides that municipalities that grant greater exemptions not be limited by this section.
Maddy summaryHB 5334 requires veterinarians to provide pet owners with a consultation when prescribing or dispensing medication for an animal patient. The consultation must cover the drug name, dosage instructions, storage, actions for missed doses, and potential severe side effects, as specified in the bill. Veterinarians may delegate this task to registered veterinary technicians and must document whether the consultation was provided or declined in the animal's medical record. The law takes effect January 1, 2026, directly affecting veterinarians and pet owners in their medication communication process.
Maddy summaryHB 5329 exempts vape shops from Rhode Island's ban on selling flavored e-cigarettes. The bill defines "vape shop" as any location dedicated to selling e-cigarette products, allowing these stores to sell flavored devices while prohibiting other retailers from doing so. It also clarifies that cannabis businesses are exempt from this ban except for tobacco/nicotine products. The law would take effect upon passage.
Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution expressing condolences for Ann D. McCaffrey, a former Warwick public school special education teacher and community member. The bill formally extends the Rhode Island House of Representatives' deepest sympathy to her family, including her children (who hold political ties) and grandchildren. It does not create any new laws or policy changes - it solely serves as a formal memorial gesture. The resolution was passed unanimously by the House on February 25, 2025.
Prohibits any city or town from requiring an applicant for license to carry concealed firearm to provide a reason for their request other than those outlined in § 11-47-1.
Requires employers to provide each employee of a warehouse distribution center, upon hire, with written description of quotas applicable to the employee within defined time periods and adverse employment action for failure to meet the quota.
Maddy summaryHB 5073 establishes a maximum 8-hour workday for state-employed peace officers (including correctional officers) in Rhode Island, with a 10-hour cap for correctional officer stewards. The bill prohibits requiring overtime beyond these limits except during unforeseeable emergencies like riots, and mandates double-time-and-a-half pay if the state violates these rules. It specifically affects correctional staff working for the Rhode Island Department of Corrections, ensuring they cannot be forced into excessive overtime without exception. The law also requires employers to make "reasonable efforts" to find volunteers before mandating overtime during emergencies. Violations would trigger immediate payment of the doubled overtime rate to affected employees.
Maddy summaryThis bill is a ceremonial resolution designating February 11, 2025, as "211 Day" in Rhode Island to honor United Way 211. It recognizes United Way 211 as a free, 24/7 service providing vital connections to health, housing, food, and disaster assistance for Rhode Islanders, including support in nearly 200 languages. The resolution has no policy impact - it solely serves to publicly acknowledge the organization's role in community support and crisis response, noting it handled 213,000 assistance requests in 2024-2025. The House passed it on February 11, 2025, directing the Secretary of State to share certified copies with United Way and partners.
Maddy summaryHB 5141 would create a special Rhode Island motor vehicle license plate honoring Governor Roger Williams, the first governor of what became Rhode Island. Vehicle owners who apply for this plate would pay an additional $25 service fee and $5 transfer fee on top of regular registration costs, with $15 covering plate manufacturing and distribution. The plate would display "Gov. Roger Williams" and the state seal, replacing the vehicle's standard license plates. This commemorative plate is optional and would not alter standard registration requirements or fees for regular plates.
