Rep. Deb Fellela

Maddy summaryThis is a commemorative resolution (not a policy bill) expressing the Rhode Island House of Representatives' condolences on the passing of David DePetrillo, former Rhode Island State Tourism Director (1983-2008) and chairman of the Rhode Island Hospitality Education Foundation. It honors his 25-year career, including pioneering tourism marketing like the "Biggest Little State in the Union" campaign, and recognizes his national reputation as a tourism leader. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to his widow, Jean DePetrillo, and family. It has no effect on policy, funding, or regulations.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial House Resolution (HR 6025) commemorating the 50th anniversary of the State Government Affairs Council (SGAC). It formally recognizes SGAC's 50 years of work fostering relationships between government, businesses, and communities, promoting diversity, and mentoring government affairs professionals. The resolution has no policy provisions or direct impact on legislation or constituents - it solely offers formal commendation and encouragement for SGAC's nonpartisan contributions to state governance. The House passed it on March 4, 2025, as a symbolic gesture.

Prohibits the division of motor vehicles from placing on a motorist's driving record, a traffic violation which fine has been paid no longer than thirty (30) days after its issuance. This procedure would only be utilized twice per year.

Places a cap of twenty percent (20%) on increases in consecutive revaluations of real property in all cities and towns conducting revaluations commencing December 31, 2025, and every December 31 thereafter.

Maddy summaryHB 5672 requires family courts to grant post-separation visitation rights between siblings who have been separated through adoption, foster care, or guardianship. The law mandates courts to approve such visits if they serve the child's best interests, there is a significant emotional bond between siblings, and involved parties (including birth parents) have negotiated an agreement or the court establishes one. It also requires adoptive/foster parents, guardians, and child welfare agencies to cooperate in facilitating contact, while allowing children aged 12 or older to express their views in court. The bill prohibits monetary damages in disputes over these arrangements and requires court approval for any modifications to visitation agreements.

Maddy summaryHB 5236 would increase the maximum local tax rate to 12% for certain federally supported housing properties. Specifically, it applies to residential properties in Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly, Section 811 Supporting Housing for Persons with Disabilities, or project-based Section 8 housing that use an operating cost basis for federal reimbursement. This 12% rate would take effect January 1, 2026, replacing the current 8% maximum for these properties. The bill does not change existing tax rates but sets a higher cap for these specific federally assisted housing programs.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates February 24-28, 2025, as "Public Schools Week" in Rhode Island. It is a ceremonial observance with no new policies, funding, or legal requirements - it simply recognizes the importance of public education through a formal state proclamation. The resolution highlights values like school equity, educator support, and student success, but does not alter existing laws or programs. It directly affects Rhode Island residents and schools by encouraging community recognition during that week.

Provides that parents and guardians of children with disabilities in private school have the same rights and remedies as parents/guardians of children in public school.

Amends the definition of public works so that it would include any public works projects performed for any city or town or quasi-municipal entity and the state and any quasi-state entity.

Requires employers to provide each employee of a warehouse distribution center, upon hire, with written description of quotas applicable to the employee within defined time periods and adverse employment action for failure to meet the quota.