Rep. Carol McEntee

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.

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 6001 redirects the distribution of hotel tax revenue in Rhode Island, shifting a larger share to the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation for tourism promotion. For tax payments received after December 31, 2015, 75% of the tax generated by hotels in the statewide district (covering most of the state) must now go directly to the Commerce Corporation, up from previous allocations. The bill requires the Commerce Corporation to spend at least the full amount it receives annually on promoting Rhode Island as a tourism destination. This change primarily affects hotels statewide, altering how local tourism districts, cities, and the Commerce Corporation receive funding from hotel taxes.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates April 2025 as "Crime Victims Awareness Month" in Rhode Island. It symbolically reaffirms the state's commitment to crime victims and survivors, honoring efforts to improve services and support within the justice system. The resolution does not create new laws or funding but serves as a formal recognition of ongoing work to ensure victims receive trauma-informed care and justice. It directly affects all crime victims and survivors in Rhode Island by promoting awareness of available resources.

Provides that the prescription label for medication abortion prescription drugs shall include the name of the dispensing health care practice instead of the name of the dispenser.

Requires one elector of the parole board to be a person directly impacted by the criminal justice system who has completed the probation/parole process three (3) or more years prior to selection with a professional background in certain enumerated areas.

Maddy summaryHB 5554 prohibits payment networks, banks, and processors from charging interchange fees on the tax or gratuity portion of electronic credit or debit card transactions. Merchants must report tax and gratuity amounts during transaction processing to avoid these fees; if they fail to do so, they can submit proof within 180 days for refunds. The law directly affects businesses that collect sales tax or tips (e.g., restaurants, retailers) and payment networks handling card transactions. It takes effect January 1, 2026, with violations subject to $1,000 penalties per transaction. The bill does not change tax or tip amounts but removes fees charged on those specific portions.

Allows eligible individuals serving sentences of imprisonment to seek sentence reductions from the superior court, individuals serving life without parole or minimum mandatory sentences pursuant to law, would not be eligible for such relief.

CRMC) FOR FUNDING OF URI'S COASTAL RESOURCES CENTER (CRC) STORMTOOLS, CHAMP ANALYSIS, AND MYCOAST (This resolution would authorize the appropriation of the sum of $400,000 to the Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Council for the continuation of STORMTOOLS, CHAMP, and MyCoast.

Maddy summaryThis ceremonial resolution (HR 6153) recognizes April 1, 2025, as "401Gives Day" in Rhode Island. It encourages all residents to participate in 401Gives, a statewide fundraising event aiming to raise over $4.01 million for Rhode Island's nonprofit community. The resolution highlights the nonprofit sector's role in employing 18% of the workforce and providing critical services like housing, education, and environmental protection. It directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies to 401Gives organizers and sponsors, acknowledging their efforts in promoting philanthropy. This is a symbolic gesture with no binding legal effect.