Rep. Mike Chippendale

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution that formally acknowledges the Taíno heritage and contributions of Taíno-descended residents in Rhode Island. It recognizes the cultural community's presence, history, and ongoing role in education and community engagement within the state. The resolution authorizes the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to Taíno community representatives and acknowledges the partnership with the Rhode Island American Indian Heritage Commission and the Federation of Aboriginal Nations of the Americas. This measure serves as a symbolic recognition rather than establishing new legal requirements or funding.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates March 2026 as Women's History Month in the State of Rhode Island to honor the contributions of women throughout history. The resolution recognizes women's roles in social movements, the economy, and public service while acknowledging their historical underrepresentation in American history. It authorizes the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to the U.S. President, the Rhode Island Governor, and the state's congressional delegation. This is a commemorative measure that does not create new laws or change existing policies.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution that formally recognizes and commends Rhode Island Energy and its workforce for their efforts during recent extreme winter weather events. It highlights the utility company's role in maintaining energy systems and restoring power after Winter Storm Fern and Winter Storm Hernando caused widespread outages and damage. The resolution acknowledges the contributions of over 1,300 union and non-union employees who worked to keep gas flowing and restore electricity to more than 99% of affected customers within 48 hours. The document directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to Greg Cornett, President of Rhode Island Energy, as an official acknowledgment of their service.

Provides a totally and permanently disabled veteran with a one hundred percent (100%) exemption from local taxation on real or personal property including real property located in any fire or lighting district.

Maddy summaryHB 7984 requires the Rhode Island Auditor General to conduct an independent audit of the Department of Transportation's performance and efficiency. This bill directly affects the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (DOT) by mandating a review of its operations and resource use. The key provision is the requirement for a formal, external audit focused on identifying areas for cost savings and improved service delivery. The bill is currently pending, having been referred to the House State Government & Elections Committee for further study.

Maddy summaryHB 7628 requires health insurers in the state to develop plans providing adequate coverage and access to non-opioid pain management services, including non-opioid medications and non-drug alternatives, for policies delivered, issued, or renewed after January 1, 2027. Insurers must submit these plans to the health insurance commissioner for approval, ensuring they do not unduly favor opioid coverage over other options. The plans must include educational materials for providers and be posted on insurer websites. This applies to all health insurance carriers offering prescription coverage, aiming to expand access to non-opioid pain treatment alternatives.

Maddy summaryThis House Resolution (HR 7826) commemorates Rhonda Dorgan, Aidan Dorgan, and Gerald Dorgan, who died during a violent incident at Pawtucket's Dennis M. Lynch Arena on February 16, 2026. It expresses the Rhode Island House of Representatives' deepest condolences to their families and commends the heroism of first responders and citizens who intervened during the tragedy. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies to the Dorgan families and Pawtucket's mayor. As a commemorative resolution, it contains no new laws or policy changes, solely offering symbolic recognition and support.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (HR 7833) passed by the Rhode Island House on February 26, 2026. It expresses formal congratulations to specific individuals and groups for milestones like milestone birthdays (e.g., Gloria Sorofa's 100th birthday) and academic achievements (e.g., Community College of Rhode Island students named to the 2025 Dean's List). The resolution lists over 100 named students and community members across multiple representatives' districts. As a non-binding resolution, it has no policy impact and solely serves to publicly recognize these accomplishments.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a symbolic resolution designating February 23-27, 2026, as "Public Schools Week" in Rhode Island. It does not create new laws or allocate funding; instead, it formally recognizes the importance of public education through a ceremonial proclamation. The resolution expresses support for public schools, educators, and student needs through non-binding statements (e.g., advocating for equitable funding and mental health resources). It affects the entire state by directing the Secretary of State to notify the state education commissioner, but has no legal or financial impact on schools or students.

Maddy summaryThis House Resolution (HR 7827) commemorates the 182nd anniversary of Dominican Republic Independence on February 27, 2026, recognizing the contributions of Rhode Island's Dominican community (approximately 54,000 residents) and Dominican-Americans to the state's economy, civic life, and military service. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies to the President of the Dominican Republic and the Dominican-American Association. It does not create new laws or alter policies but serves as a ceremonial acknowledgment of historical ties and community impact.