Increases the minimum hourly wage commencing January 1, 2029, by an amount equal to the total percentage increase in the Consumer Price Index for all Urban Consumers (CPI-U) for the Northeast Region for the calendar year 2027.
Maddy summaryHB 7728 allows Rhode Island to issue emergency teaching certificates without requiring an exam for up to five total school years. It permits an initial one-year certificate, renewable annually up to four more years (for a total of five), for individuals needing to teach while completing certification requirements. This change modifies existing rules by extending the maximum duration for emergency certification under the state's teacher certification framework. The bill would apply directly to educators seeking temporary teaching authorization in urgent staffing situations. The bill was introduced to the House Education Committee on February 12, 2026.
Requires BrightStars QRIS ratings for licensed child care facilities to be based on an average of all standards, ensure transparent scoring methods, and preserve automatic five-star ratings for nationally accredited programs.
Maddy summaryThis bill is a House Resolution expressing condolences for the passing of Frank J. Almonte, a Cranston-based contractor and business owner. The resolution acknowledges his contributions to his family and community, noting his career with Almonte Designs and his dedication to his wife, children, and extended family. It directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to Almonte's immediate family members. This measure serves as a formal tribute rather than establishing new policy or regulations.
Maddy summaryHB 7847 prohibits airlines from setting expiration dates on airline tickets and flight vouchers, meaning these items cannot expire after a certain date. This directly affects travelers who purchase tickets or receive vouchers, ensuring they retain the right to use them indefinitely. The key provision bans expiration dates as a standard practice, requiring airlines to honor all purchased tickets and vouchers without time limits. The bill focuses on preventing unfair practices that limit consumer access to travel services. It is currently in the introduction phase, referred to the House Corporations committee.
Maddy summaryThis bill is a House Resolution expressing condolences for the passing of Francisco J. "El Grande" Batista, a realtor from Rhode Island. It formally acknowledges his life, family connections, and contributions to his community. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies to the Batista family as an official gesture of respect. It does not create new laws or policy changes but serves as a commemorative tribute.
Maddy summaryThis bill designates March 10, 2026, as "Homeless Service Provider Day" in Rhode Island to honor the work of organizations and individuals who support people experiencing homelessness. The resolution recognizes the efforts of nonprofits, shelter staff, outreach teams, and volunteers who provide essential services like emergency housing, meals, and case management. It directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to the Housing Network of Rhode Island/Community Housing Land Trust. The measure serves as a commemorative gesture rather than establishing new policy requirements or funding.
Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution expressing condolences for the death of Michael D. Zarum, a lifelong Warwick resident who passed away in a pedestrian accident. The resolution acknowledges the circumstances of his death, noting that police found no evidence of speeding, impairment, or distracted driving as contributing factors. It highlights Zarum's community contributions, including his environmental advocacy work and civic engagement, while formally offering sympathy to his family. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies to Zarum's family.
Maddy summaryThis bill officially designates March 2026 as Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month in Rhode Island, raising public awareness about inherited blood clotting conditions like hemophilia and Von Willebrand Disease. The resolution recognizes the national observance established by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and builds on earlier state-level acknowledgments of these health conditions. By directing the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to the New England Hemophilia Association, the bill facilitates coordination with advocacy groups to promote understanding of bleeding disorders and their impact on approximately 33,000 individuals with hemophilia and 3.2 million with Von Willebrand Disease.
Maddy summaryThis bill designates March 2026 as "Arts in the Schools Month" in Rhode Island to recognize and celebrate the importance of arts education in schools. It directly affects students, arts educators, artists, and school administrators by encouraging the state to acknowledge their contributions to student engagement and learning. The resolution highlights how arts education supports skills like critical thinking, teamwork, and cultural competency while referencing existing state frameworks and grant programs that promote arts instruction. The House of Representatives passed this symbolic measure to urge citizens to observe the month and appreciate the efforts of those working to provide arts access to young people.
