Rep. Joe Shekarchi

Maddy summaryThis bill designates a specific bridge in Providence, Rhode Island, as the "George Nee Bridge." It directly affects the state's transportation infrastructure by officially naming the structure where U.S. Route 44 crosses over Interstate 95. The key provision requires that signs displaying the new name be installed using private funds, with their design and placement approved by the state Department of Transportation. Once passed, the act will take effect immediately to formalize this permanent name change.

Maddy summaryThis bill (HR 7579) formally rescinds Rhode Island's 1861 ratification of the Corwin Amendment, a proposed constitutional amendment from the Civil War era. The Corwin Amendment aimed to protect slavery by prohibiting future constitutional amendments that could interfere with "domestic institutions" like slavery in states. Rhode Island's ratification is being repealed because the amendment was never adopted by enough states, became obsolete after the 13th Amendment abolished slavery, and has no current legal effect. The resolution is purely procedural, correcting a historical record without changing any existing law or constitutional provisions.

Authorizes municipalities to make an emergency declaration under limited circumstances to allow for the construction and use of SAFE Units on a temporary basis which have specialized requirements and exemptions from the state fire and building codes.

Amends the state building code and would require that the state adopt the 2024 International Residential Code and prohibit the state building committee from adopting amendments for one to four residential dwelling units until 2030.

Maddy summaryHB 7003 requires Rhode Island's Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Rhode Island Interscholastic League to create a statewide anti-hazing policy for student athletics. The policy must define hazing, prohibit "consent" as a defense, and include clear consequences like team suspensions or season cancellations for violations. All student-athletes in RIIL schools must sign an acknowledgment form confirming they understand these penalties before participating in any athletic activities. The policy aims to ensure consistent, transparent discipline and integrate with existing school climate and anti-bullying efforts across all participating schools.

Maddy summaryHB 7090 changes the date for primary elections that select delegates to national political conventions and determine presidential preferences. It moves the election from the fourth Tuesday in April to the first Tuesday in March starting in 2028, with this schedule applying every four years thereafter. The bill includes a temporary exception for the 2024 election, which will remain on April 2, 2024. This procedural change affects all political parties conducting these delegate elections in the state. The bill requires no new funding or policy shifts, only adjusting the election timing.

Amends what is considered sexual abuse for purposes of limitations on actions based on sexual abuse or exploitation of a child and would amend the provisions for when a cause of action may be brought.

Maddy summaryHB 7114 permits schools to assign special community service as a disciplinary measure for students who bully others based on religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or ethnicity. This policy directly affects students who commit such bullying and school administrators implementing disciplinary actions. The key provision replaces traditional punishments (like suspension) with community service for these specific types of bullying incidents. The bill does not define bullying but offers an alternative consequence for violations targeting these protected characteristics. It is currently under review by the House Education committee.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution that formally congratulates J. L. "Lynn" Singleton on his retirement as President and CEO of the Providence Performing Arts Center. It recognizes his forty-three-year tenure, during which he transformed the venue from near bankruptcy into a major regional theater with increased attendance and expanded programming. The resolution highlights his leadership in restoring the building's historic splendor and launching numerous national tours, noting his continued role in professional facilities management after leaving PPAC. The text concludes by expressing gratitude for his contributions to the arts and directing the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to him.

Maddy summaryThis legislative resolution designates May 10, 2026, as "Lupus Day" in Rhode Island to raise public awareness about lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease that affects millions of people worldwide. The bill highlights the need for better understanding of the disease's symptoms and the importance of specialized medical care for patients, particularly women between the ages of 15 and 45. Additionally, the resolution encourages charitable donations to the Lupus Foundation of America and related organizations to support research and patient services. The House of Representatives has passed this measure to formally recognize the day and transmit the proclamation to the foundation.