Rep. Joe Shekarchi

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution that celebrates the 25th anniversary of the Women's Fund of Rhode Island, a nonprofit organization founded in 2001 to advance gender equity through research, policy advocacy, and community engagement. The resolution formally recognizes the organization's work in areas such as women's health, economic security, and civic participation, and expresses appreciation for its contributions to improving conditions for women and girls across the state. It directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to the CEO of the Women's Fund of Rhode Island as an official acknowledgment of the organization's achievements.

Maddy summaryThis bill officially recognizes March 8, 2026, as International Women's Day within the State of Rhode Island. It directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to the Governor for formal acknowledgment. The measure commemorates the historical significance of the day, which honors women's rights and gender equality through a global observance established by the United Nations.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates March 3, 2026, as "Reach Out and Read Rhode Island Day" to honor the nonprofit organization that promotes early childhood literacy through shared reading. The resolution recognizes the program's work with pediatricians and family medicine providers to distribute free books to families with young children during medical visits. By officially commemorating this date, the state aims to raise public awareness about the importance of early literacy and acknowledge the organization's contributions to child development. The Secretary of State is authorized to send a certified copy of the resolution to the organization's executive director.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution that formally acknowledges the Taíno heritage and contributions of Taíno-descended residents in Rhode Island. It recognizes the cultural community's presence, history, and ongoing role in education and community engagement within the state. The resolution authorizes the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to Taíno community representatives and acknowledges the partnership with the Rhode Island American Indian Heritage Commission and the Federation of Aboriginal Nations of the Americas. This measure serves as a symbolic recognition rather than establishing new legal requirements or funding.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates March 2026 as Women's History Month in the State of Rhode Island to honor the contributions of women throughout history. The resolution recognizes women's roles in social movements, the economy, and public service while acknowledging their historical underrepresentation in American history. It authorizes the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to the U.S. President, the Rhode Island Governor, and the state's congressional delegation. This is a commemorative measure that does not create new laws or change existing policies.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution that formally recognizes and commends Rhode Island Energy and its workforce for their efforts during recent extreme winter weather events. It highlights the utility company's role in maintaining energy systems and restoring power after Winter Storm Fern and Winter Storm Hernando caused widespread outages and damage. The resolution acknowledges the contributions of over 1,300 union and non-union employees who worked to keep gas flowing and restore electricity to more than 99% of affected customers within 48 hours. The document directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to Greg Cornett, President of Rhode Island Energy, as an official acknowledgment of their service.

Maddy summaryThis House Resolution (HR 7826) commemorates Rhonda Dorgan, Aidan Dorgan, and Gerald Dorgan, who died during a violent incident at Pawtucket's Dennis M. Lynch Arena on February 16, 2026. It expresses the Rhode Island House of Representatives' deepest condolences to their families and commends the heroism of first responders and citizens who intervened during the tragedy. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies to the Dorgan families and Pawtucket's mayor. As a commemorative resolution, it contains no new laws or policy changes, solely offering symbolic recognition and support.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a symbolic resolution designating February 23-27, 2026, as "Public Schools Week" in Rhode Island. It does not create new laws or allocate funding; instead, it formally recognizes the importance of public education through a ceremonial proclamation. The resolution expresses support for public schools, educators, and student needs through non-binding statements (e.g., advocating for equitable funding and mental health resources). It affects the entire state by directing the Secretary of State to notify the state education commissioner, but has no legal or financial impact on schools or students.

Maddy summaryThis House Resolution (HR 7827) commemorates the 182nd anniversary of Dominican Republic Independence on February 27, 2026, recognizing the contributions of Rhode Island's Dominican community (approximately 54,000 residents) and Dominican-Americans to the state's economy, civic life, and military service. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies to the President of the Dominican Republic and the Dominican-American Association. It does not create new laws or alter policies but serves as a ceremonial acknowledgment of historical ties and community impact.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution, not a policy bill. HR 7829 expresses the Rhode Island House of Representatives' condolences to the family of Carlo Spirito, Jr., a former Cranston City Council member and math teacher, following his passing. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to his wife, Florence Spirito, and family. It has no policy impact or direct effect on any laws, programs, or specific groups beyond this formal expression of sympathy.