Rep. Earl Read

Maddy summaryThis bill officially designates June 2026 as Portuguese American Heritage Month in Rhode Island to honor the state's Portuguese community. It recognizes the group's historical contributions to the state's economy, culture, and public service, as well as key landmarks like the Our Lady of the Rosary Church. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send copies of the proclamation to state officials, Portuguese government leaders, and local organizations.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a special legislative commission to study the need for establishing an Office of the Elder Advocate in Rhode Island. The commission will consist of thirteen members, including representatives from the legislature, legal organizations, senior advocacy groups, and older adults, who will meet to examine unmet needs and existing systems for protecting older residents. The group will provide recommendations on the structure, powers, and funding for such an office and must submit its final report to the House of Representatives by March 15, 2027.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates June 2026 as "Men's Mental Health Month" in Rhode Island to raise awareness about the mental health challenges faced by men. It encourages residents, organizations, and state agencies to promote open conversations, reduce stigma, and support access to care during this month. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies to relevant health departments and advocacy groups to help coordinate these efforts.

Maddy summaryHB 7055 changes how longevity payments (extra pay for years of service) are handled for certain state employees in Rhode Island. Starting July 1, 2026, non-classified state employees under grade 19 (excluding faculty) will be able to negotiate these payments through collective bargaining agreements, reversing a 2011 ban. The bill specifies payments cannot be counted toward base salary and clarifies rules for employees with existing agreements. It applies to employees of the Board of Governors for Higher Education, Board of Regents for Elementary/Secondary Education, and other state departments. This is a policy change to allow future negotiations, not a new benefit.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates May 28, 2026, as Pharmacy Advocacy Day in Rhode Island to honor the contributions of pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and student pharmacists to public health. The resolution encourages citizens, healthcare professionals, and organizations to participate in events that promote pharmacy advocacy and raise awareness about the vital role pharmacists play in medication management and patient care. Additionally, the bill directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to the Rhode Island Pharmacists Association and the Rhode Island Board of Pharmacy.

Requires 10% of all rental fees collected by the water resources board pursuant to a lease with the Coventry Pines Golf Club be paid to the town of Coventry and 10% to the Central Coventry Fire District.

Allows the town of Coventry to receive a one-half (1/2) credit for affordable housing units for manufactured homes in age restricted communities in conformance with all zoning laws and/or ordinances of the town.

Permits Coventry to require two parking space for each studio, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom low- or moderate-income housing units upon the determination that limited or no local public transportation or off-street parking availability near these units.

Requires the Rhode Island housing authority to verify and document the count of affordable housing stock in the town of Coventry two (2) times per year.

Sets timelines for Coventry's new construction, including one year for final approval, two (2) years for building permits, and temporary inclusion of units in the town's count until completion or three (3) years, whichever comes first.