Provides the board of trustees with tort claim protections and calls upon the board to undertake a feasibility study related to operations of the Rhode Island Nuclear Science Center and the Rhode Island Atomic Energy Commission.
Enhances and further defines the role of the board of trustees of the University of Rhode Island. This act would also provide a more efficient procurement process for the university.
Provides that adjunct faculty members at any state college or university who teach at least 50% of the hours regularly worked by full-time faculty in a semester would be eligible for the same medical benefits as other state employees.
Creates the Rhode Island Student Loan repayment program which would allow eligible individuals who have unpaid student loans, provided said individuals meet specified criteria.
Maddy summaryThis bill amends Rhode Island's tax and sales regulations on electronic nicotine-delivery systems by classifying menthol as a flavored product. It prohibits the sale, offer for sale, or possession with intent to sell flavored electronic nicotine-delivery system products to consumers within the state. The law defines characterizing flavors broadly to include menthol along with other tastes or aromas such as fruit, mint, chocolate, and vanilla, and requires consideration of product labeling and advertising claims when determining flavor status. Licensed compassion centers and cannabis cultivators remain exempt from this ban, except for products containing tobacco or nicotine. The measure takes effect immediately upon passage.
Funds the state crime victim compensation program through an additional one dollar ($1.00) fine on traffic violations, exclusive of violations related to the parking of vehicles.
Establishes the office of inspector general as an independent administrative agency charged with the responsibility to investigate, detect, and prevent fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement in the expenditure of public funds.
Allows a municipality to set its own conveyance tax rate for residential properties sold in excess of $900,000.00 at $10 per $500. Provides collected taxes to be in a restricted account and distributed within 2 years for affordable housing.
Requires the state investment commission to create a capital access initiative to expand potential investment opportunities for the state’s pension fund and engage qualified but traditionally underrepresented investment managers.
Maddy summaryThis bill designates April 28, 2026, as 'Arts Day in Rhode Island' to honor the importance of arts and culture in the state. It encourages residents to reflect on how these fields enrich their lives and support local economies and schools. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send copies of the document to the Rhode Island State Council on the Arts and the Rhode Island Coalition for the Arts.
