Removes the definition of "totally and permanently disabled" from the general law affording college tuition paid by the state to the spouse and children of active members of the police force who are killed or disabled during duty.
Limits the ability for any federal immigration authority to investigate, detain, apprehend or arrest any individuals for potential violations of federal immigration laws without a judicial warrant within certain protected locations.
Maddy summaryHB 5395 allows vehicle owners to challenge the valuation used to calculate sales tax when registering a motor vehicle in this state. It directly affects anyone registering a vehicle, as they can now dispute whether the tax is based on the National Automotive Dealers Association (NADA) book value or the sales price (whichever is higher). The bill requires the tax administrator to create rules for a hearing process where taxpayers can formally appeal the valuation. This change gives vehicle owners a formal mechanism to correct potential overvaluations before paying the tax. The bill takes effect upon passage.
Raises the amount of life insurance the state provides at no charge to Rhode Island National Guard members called up for federal duty to five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000).
Maddy summaryHB 5404 provides a tax credit for businesses and individuals who donate "apparently wholesome food" (safe-to-eat food that may be imperfect in appearance) to qualifying nonprofit organizations. Donors can claim a credit equal to 75% of the food's fair market value (up to $5,000 annually) and a separate 50% credit for transportation costs (also capped at $5,000). To qualify, the donated food must be distributed to people in need or sold at minimal "good samaritan" prices, and nonprofits must provide a certificate verifying compliance. The credit applies to taxes under specific chapters of the tax code and takes effect January 1, 2026.
Maddy summaryHB 5680 would allow workers to receive unemployment benefits if they are on strike or locked out due to a labor dispute, directly affecting employees involved in workplace conflicts. The bill modifies eligibility rules so workers aren’t automatically disqualified for benefits during strikes (if not responsible for the dispute) or lockouts (unless the employer offers a 3-day wage extension that’s refused or the lockout responds to a strike at another company in a multi-employer group). It also ensures benefits continue for more than a week after a dispute ends. The law would take effect immediately upon passage, changing current rules that typically deny benefits during labor disputes.
Provides that businesses awarded tax credits, under the qualified jobs incentive act, within a specified time period are able to submit certain required documentation by December 31, 2025.
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.
Maddy summaryThis resolution formally designates April 2025 as "Alcohol Awareness Month" in Rhode Island. It serves as a symbolic proclamation highlighting alcohol abuse as a public health concern, citing state-specific statistics like 599 annual alcohol-related deaths and high binge-drinking rates. The resolution does not create new laws, funding, or mandates - it simply urges community participation in existing awareness efforts. It directs the Secretary of State to notify the Governor and health officials of the designation. (This is a procedural resolution, not a policy bill.)
Maddy summaryHB 5589 prohibits individuals under age 16 from using rideshare services (like Uber or Lyft) alone. The bill requires law enforcement to remove underage riders from vehicles and hold them until a parent or guardian can take custody, with no fines or records kept for violations. It applies to all online ride-hailing platforms and takes effect upon passage. This policy directly affects minors under 16 traveling without an adult in rideshare vehicles.
