Allows nonprofit organizations to participate in permitted games of chance upon registering with the state police on an annual basis. The nonprofit would be exempt from any required background checks by local law enforcement.
Mandates arming campus police at public higher educational institutions and includes campus police in the definition of "law enforcement officer" for the purposes of the "Law Enforcement Officers' Bill of Rights."
Maddy summaryHB 7444 updates retirement calculations for police officers and firefighters in the state. It changes the formula used to determine retirement allowances, effective July 1, 2026, by adding a 2.5% multiplier on final salary for service years after June 30, 2026. Members retiring after this date will receive their accrued benefit as of June 2026 plus the new 2.5% calculation for future service. A special provision preserves the previous benefit formula for those retiring at age 57 with 30+ years of service.
Authorizes an annual two and one-half percent (2.5%) escalation for all active and retired police and firefighter's retirement pension allowance, compounded each year on January 1 following the year of retirement and continuing yearly, on that date.
Provides educators and administrators employed in a charter public school or mayoral academy with prevailing wage and benefits oversight and recourse if found in violation of the same.
Establishes provisions for student and teacher classroom safety and provides the authority to remove students from classrooms. This act provides for student and educator protections from said removals.
Maddy summaryHB 7729 prohibits the unlawful use of designated seclusion rooms in Rhode Island public pre-K, elementary, and secondary schools, meaning students cannot be left alone in isolated rooms without freedom to leave. The bill specifically excludes physical prompts, restraints, and time-outs from this prohibition. School staff must follow positive behavioral interventions instead, and the education commissioner must handle complaints about violations through investigations and published procedures. This law directly affects all public school students, staff, and administrators in Rhode Island’s K-12 system.
Maddy summaryThis bill is a House Resolution expressing condolences for the passing of Frank J. Almonte, a Cranston-based contractor and business owner. The resolution acknowledges his contributions to his family and community, noting his career with Almonte Designs and his dedication to his wife, children, and extended family. It directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to Almonte's immediate family members. This measure serves as a formal tribute rather than establishing new policy or regulations.
Maddy summaryHB 7903 requires schools to create individualized academic plans for students diagnosed with a concussion or other brain injury. This directly affects students recovering from such injuries and their school staff. The key provision mandates that schools develop and implement specific accommodations to support these students' academic needs during recovery. The bill focuses on ensuring students receive necessary educational support following a brain injury diagnosis.
Requires all certified independent or district charter schools upon application for a renewal of said charter or an application for a new charter school to provide a union neutrality clause in the charter.
