Maddy summaryHB 5672 requires family courts to grant post-separation visitation rights between siblings who have been separated through adoption, foster care, or guardianship. The law mandates courts to approve such visits if they serve the child's best interests, there is a significant emotional bond between siblings, and involved parties (including birth parents) have negotiated an agreement or the court establishes one. It also requires adoptive/foster parents, guardians, and child welfare agencies to cooperate in facilitating contact, while allowing children aged 12 or older to express their views in court. The bill prohibits monetary damages in disputes over these arrangements and requires court approval for any modifications to visitation agreements.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryHB 5236 would increase the maximum local tax rate to 12% for certain federally supported housing properties. Specifically, it applies to residential properties in Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly, Section 811 Supporting Housing for Persons with Disabilities, or project-based Section 8 housing that use an operating cost basis for federal reimbursement. This 12% rate would take effect January 1, 2026, replacing the current 8% maximum for these properties. The bill does not change existing tax rates but sets a higher cap for these specific federally assisted housing programs.
Maddy summaryThis resolution designates February 24-28, 2025, as "Public Schools Week" in Rhode Island. It is a ceremonial observance with no new policies, funding, or legal requirements - it simply recognizes the importance of public education through a formal state proclamation. The resolution highlights values like school equity, educator support, and student success, but does not alter existing laws or programs. It directly affects Rhode Island residents and schools by encouraging community recognition during that week.
Defines "anti-Semitism" for the state human affairs commission to use while investigating and working to resolve complaints of discrimination and for the commission against prejudice and bias to use in defining hate crimes.
Provides that parents and guardians of children with disabilities in private school have the same rights and remedies as parents/guardians of children in public school.
Amends the definition of public works so that it would include any public works projects performed for any city or town or quasi-municipal entity and the state and any quasi-state entity.
Maddy summaryHR 5414 is a ceremonial resolution celebrating the 90th birthday of Robert Edward Kenahan on February 8, 2025. It recognizes his public service history, including 20 years with the Rhode Island State Police (retiring as Detective Sergeant), U.S. Navy service during the Korean Conflict, and roles with Pinkerton Security, Westerly Hospital, and the Newport Tennis Hall of Fame. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send Kenahan a certified copy of the resolution. As a non-binding commemorative measure, it has no policy impact or direct effect on any laws or individuals beyond this symbolic gesture.
Expands responsibilities of agencies, persons or entities that store, own, collect, process, maintain, acquire, use, or licenses data, who experiences a security breach, include providing additional information to persons affected and law enforcement
Maddy summaryHB 5048 would create special license plates for vehicles owned by the Rhode Island Fire Chiefs Honor Flight Hub, a nonprofit organization that honors veterans by providing free trips to Washington, D.C. for WWII and Korean War veterans. Owners of vehicles using these plates would pay a $40 one-time fee and a $10 annual renewal fee, with $20 of the initial fee going to the state general fund and $20 allocated to the nonprofit. The nonprofit must use all funds for Rhode Island-based charitable causes and submit annual financial reports. This is a special plate program, not a broad policy change, and would take effect six months after passage.
Maddy summaryHB 5071 amends Rhode Island law to expand the definition of "public official" under threats and extortion statutes. It specifically adds state government caseworkers (social workers who help individuals access government resources) and investigators to the list of protected individuals. This means threatening these workers because of their job duties would now be a felony, punishable by up to five years in prison, a $5,000 fine, or both. The bill does not create new penalties but extends existing legal protections to these specific state employees. The change takes effect upon passage.