Rep. Dick Fascia

Maddy summaryThis bill appropriates $1,167,100 to the Rhode Island Auditory Oral Program for fiscal year 2026-2027. The program, based in the Foster School Department, provides specialized auditory-oral instruction using hearing technology to support children with hearing loss, helping them achieve academic success and social inclusion. The funds will directly support this educational service for affected children and their families.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates April 23, 2026, as World Table Tennis Day in the state of Rhode Island. It encourages residents to participate in the sport to enjoy its health benefits and community spirit. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a copy of the document to the Rhode Island Table Tennis Association.

Prohibits individuals from conveying items to or from the training school for youth without prior consent by the executive director of the division of youth development at the department of children, youth and families.

Maddy summaryHB 8114 requires the Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) director to share a child’s school enrollment information with the child’s school nurse when that child is placed in foster care. This directly affects school nurses, DCYF staff, and children in foster care who attend public schools. The key provision mandates DCYF to proactively provide this enrollment detail to school nurses to ensure continuity of care. The bill aims to improve communication between child welfare and school staff for foster youth.

Changes primary election to Wednesday if after Labor Day and does not mandate local boards of election to have voter registration drive at high school.

Authorizes the town of Johnston, if an aggregate of two hundred fifty (250) or more units should be proposed in comprehensive permit project(s), to enact an emergency moratorium until the permit requirement of § 45-53-4 are amended.

Maddy summaryHB 8041 allows the town of Johnston to set density bonuses - incentives for higher-density development - based on its existing zoning ordinances. This bill directly affects Johnston's local planning decisions by giving the town authority to determine these bonuses according to its current zoning framework. The key provision removes a previous restriction, enabling Johnston to align density incentives with its specific zoning classifications. This change streamlines the town's ability to manage development patterns within its designated zones. The bill is currently under review by the House Municipal Government & Housing committee.

Permits Johnston to require 2 parking spaces for each studio, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom low- or moderate-income housing unit upon the determination that limited or no local public transportation or off-street parking is available near these units.

Maddy summaryThis bill officially designates April 19-25, 2026, as "National Library Week" throughout Rhode Island. It aims to recognize the role of libraries in providing community resources, internet access, and inclusive services to residents. The resolution thanks library staff for their work and encourages the public to visit libraries during the designated week. Additionally, it directs the Secretary of State to send copies of the proclamation to the state's Office of Library and Information Services and all local libraries.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires centers for independent living to have automated external defibrillators on site, expanding the list of healthcare facilities already mandated to have this equipment. The law defines healthcare facilities broadly to include hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and other medical service providers, while public places like schools and restaurants must also maintain defibrillators. By adding independent living centers to the list of required locations, the bill aims to increase access to life-saving equipment in more community settings. The change takes effect immediately upon passage and applies to all facilities meeting the specified definitions.