Rep. Teresa Tanzi

Maddy summaryThis is a Rhode Island House resolution (not legislation), urging federal lawmakers to address concerns about Medicare Advantage (MA) plans. It calls for transparency measures, stricter marketing rules, and redirecting funds from MA plans to strengthen Traditional Medicare. The resolution highlights issues like higher costs for enrollees, narrower provider networks, and profit-driven practices by MA insurers, but does not create new laws. It specifically recommends actions for Congress and federal agencies, such as requiring MA plan audits and prohibiting practices that prioritize corporate profits over patient care.

Creates the home-fit dwelling units act to apply to all new construction of covered dwelling units to incorporate design features that provide safe and convenient use of to the greatest extent feasible, regardless of age or physical ability.

Establishes a new article in the state building code that provides that certain new housing construction contain at least one floor that meets the requirements for a Type C "ANSI'' Standards for Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities.

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.

Imposes a non-owner occupied property tax on residential properties assessed in excess of eight hundred thousand dollars ($800,000) at variable rates dependent on values assessed by local tax assessors.

Maddy summaryHB 5887 would rename the second Monday in August from "Victory Day" to "Peace and Remembrance Day" in Rhode Island. This change directly affects state holidays observed by government employees and public institutions. The bill repeals a provision prohibiting the use of any name other than "Victory Day" for this holiday. It takes effect upon passage, reflecting a shift from commemorating military victory to emphasizing peace and the civilian impacts of war.

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 bill designates April 2025 as "Community Development Month" in Rhode Island through a ceremonial resolution. It recognizes Community Development Corporations and nonprofit housing developers (specifically acknowledging The Housing Network of Rhode Island and its members) for their work in creating affordable housing, supporting community services like childcare and job training, and improving economic opportunities for low- and moderate-income residents. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to HNRI's Executive Director, Melina Lodge, as formal acknowledgment of these organizations' contributions. As a symbolic gesture with no new policy requirements or funding, it does not alter laws or directly affect residents' daily lives.

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.