Rep. Tina Spears

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.

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.

Provides that the legislature would be the body that negotiates on behalf of the state for all activities occurring in, on and over state submerged land extending beyond twenty-five (25) acres.

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 summaryHR 5732 proposes a constitutional amendment (the "Green Amendment") that would add a new right to all Rhode Islanders: the inherent right to clean air, clean water, healthy soil, a stable climate, and preservation of natural, scenic, and recreational environmental values. If approved by voters, it would require the state to act as a trustee of natural resources, protecting these rights equitably for all people regardless of race, gender, or income, and for both current and future generations. The amendment would take effect January 1, 2027, and must be voted on by Rhode Island residents at the next statewide general election. This is a procedural proposal - voters must approve it before it becomes part of the state constitution.

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 summaryHB 5347 amends Rhode Island law to extend all extended benefits provided by the Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) to children placed in guardianship, aligning them with the benefits already available to foster children. This change ensures children under legal guardianship receive the same post-care support services as those in foster care. The bill directly affects children in guardianship arrangements and their guardians across Rhode Island. It modifies Section 42-72-5 of the General Laws to include guardianship under DCYF's benefit provisions.