Limits the recovery for personal injuries actions against any town to $3,000 retroactive to all causes of action arising after January 1, 2025, and prohibits the use of subsequent remedial measures in roadway/highway defect cases.
Exempts recovery claims for damages due to a town's neglect in maintaining highways or bridges from the provisions of chapter 31 of title 9 on governmental tort liability.
Extends the range of a school zone for purposes of school-zone-speed-enforcement systems from one-quarter (1/4) mile to three-quarters (3/4) of a mile.
Maddy summaryHB 5641 simplifies appeal fees for small claims and consumer cases in district courts. It increases the appeal filing fee to $75 (including processing fees), with $20 of each fee directed to a new mediation fund for small claims disputes. The bill also raises the maximum counterclaim amount from $2,500 to $5,000 and specifies that defendants who default in consumer cases (e.g., product damage claims) forfeit their right to appeal. This affects individuals and businesses involved in small monetary disputes under $5,000, streamlining procedures while clarifying appeal rights.
Caps damages at $100,000 in tort actions against Rhode Island, cities, towns, or fire districts, except for willful misconduct or extreme recklessness. It also exempts them from § 9-21-10.
Creates rodent integrated pest management pilot programs for municipalities. That choose to participate. Reports would be approved by the municipality's mayor or administrator and would be submitted to the department of environmental management.
Maddy summaryThis House Resolution (HR 6028) officially recognizes March 2025 as "Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month" in Rhode Island. It symbolically raises public awareness about inheritable bleeding disorders like hemophilia and Von Willebrand Disease, which affect an estimated 33,000 Rhode Island residents. The resolution has no new policies or funding; it simply declares the month to foster community support and educate the public, with a certified copy sent to the New England Hemophilia Association.
Maddy summaryThis resolution celebrates the 27th Annual "Women in Construction Week" (March 2-8, 2025) in Rhode Island. It formally recognizes NAWIC Rhode Island Chapter 52 for promoting women's careers in construction, supporting community development, and advancing skilled trades through educational programs. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to transmit a certified copy to the RI Builders Association and Professional Women in Building. It has no binding effect but serves as an official state acknowledgment of the organization's work.
Maddy summaryThis resolution formally designates March 2025 as "National Social Work Month" in Rhode Island. It recognizes the contributions of social workers across the state - particularly those in schools, hospitals, mental health services, and community support roles - who help address issues like mental health, substance use disorders, homelessness, and social justice. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to the National Association of Social Workers Rhode Island Chapter. As a ceremonial resolution, it does not create new laws or allocate funding, but serves as symbolic recognition of the profession's impact.
Requires all peace officers to carry epinephrine autoinjectors in their vehicles or on their person police departments to budget sufficient funds to purchase the epinephrine and autoinjectors and for training of every peace officer.
