Rep. Brian Kennedy

Increases the state’s regionalization bonus to six percent (6.0%) of the state’s fiscal year share of foundation education aid. This bonus would be ongoing and continuing so long as the district remains a regional school district.

Raises the minimum threshold contract price before public works contractors are required to pay prevailing wages to their employees, from $1,000 to $100,000.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House Resolution that formally recognizes the 78th anniversary of Israel's independence and reaffirms the friendship between Rhode Island, the United States, and Israel. It does not change any laws or policies but instead serves as a symbolic statement acknowledging shared democratic values and the historical significance of Israel's establishment. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies to Jewish and Israeli leadership groups in Rhode Island and Boston.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a ceremonial resolution that honors family medicine physicians in Rhode Island for their contributions to healthcare and community well-being. It specifically recognizes the importance of these doctors in providing comprehensive care and addresses their upcoming Advocacy Day event on April 16, 2026. The measure directs the Secretary of State to send official copies of the resolution to the Rhode Island Academy of Family Physicians as a formal gesture of appreciation.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates April 19-25, 2026, as National Infertility Awareness Week in Rhode Island to raise public understanding of infertility as a health condition. It directly affects individuals and families struggling with fertility issues, including those in the LGBTQI+ community, by aiming to reduce stigma and highlight the emotional and financial challenges they face. The resolution encourages participation in awareness activities and directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to the National Infertility Association.

Maddy summaryHB 7685 adds probation and parole officers to Rhode Island's list of state law enforcement professionals eligible for retirement benefits under the state retirement system. The bill amends Chapter 36-10 to include these officers in the specific retirement provisions (sections 45-21.2-5 through 45-21.2-13), effective January 1, 2027. This change directly affects Rhode Island probation and parole officers by granting them the same retirement benefits previously available to other law enforcement roles like deputy sheriffs and firefighters. Service credits earned before 2025 will be calculated under prior laws. The bill does not alter contribution rates or other retirement system mechanics.

Provides that retirees in the state pension system receive cost of living adjustments compounded into the retiree’s total retirement benefits each year beginning January 1, 2026. This act would be prospective only.

Changes the teacher and state employees' retirement benefit calculations' cutoff date from July 1, 2024, to July 1, 2012, for all retirement members eligible to and who retire on or after the new July 1, 2012, cutoff date.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution that expresses condolences and honors the life of Raymond A. Choiniere, who passed away on April 8, 2026. It recognizes his contributions as an athlete, educator, community volunteer, and public servant, including his time as a policy analyst in the Rhode Island Speaker of the House office. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to the Choiniere family.

Maddy summaryThis legislative bill is a House Resolution that expresses condolences for the passing of Sylvia A. DeLuca, a resident of Saunderstown, Rhode Island. The document honors her life by highlighting her roles as a devoted wife, dedicated employee, and supportive family member, noting her career as an administrative assistant at the University of Rhode Island and her personal passions for art and cooking. The resolution formally extends the House's sympathy to her family and directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the document to them.