Rep. Mia Ackerman

Maddy summaryHR 5040 is a ceremonial House Resolution passed by the Rhode Island House of Representatives on January 14, 2025, expressing condolences for the passing of Saysomboun Phivilay. The resolution directly extends heartfelt sympathy to her husband, Khamsing Phivilay; her daughter Phanida Phivilay and family; and her daughter Alina Phivilay and family. It requires the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to these family members as a formal gesture of respect. This is a procedural resolution with no policy changes or financial impact, solely serving to honor the deceased.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution expressing condolences for Melvin L. Zurier, a former Rhode Island attorney, Air Force Reserve Colonel, and public servant. The bill formally honors his life and legacy, noting his 71-year marriage, legal career, service on the Rhode Island Ethics Commission, and community involvement. It directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to his son, Senator Samuel D. Zurier, and family. As a purely commemorative resolution with no policy changes, it does not affect legislation or impose new requirements.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (not a policy bill) expressing the Rhode Island House of Representatives' condolences on the passing of Anthony M. Zainyeh, a former Rhode Island Department of Taxation employee. It specifically honors his 42-year career, his service as President of Council 94, and his family, including his son George Zainyeh (a former state representative) and daughter Diane Zainyeh. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies to the surviving family members. It has no policy impact or direct effect on any laws or regulations.

Requires an electric distribution company to develop and act pursuant to a vegetation management plan approved by the DPUC to carry out vegetation management activities on and around utility infrastructure along public and private rights of way.

Maddy summaryHB 7291 establishes the Rhode Island Early Care and Education Workforce Data Act to create a statewide registry for staff working in licensed child care and early learning programs. This system is designed to collect and maintain data on educator demographics, qualifications, and annual turnover rates while also connecting workers with professional development opportunities. The bill requires the Department of Human Services to implement this registry by July 1, 2025, and to publish annual reports on workforce characteristics starting in January 2026. By codifying a previously funded initiative into state law, the measure ensures consistency in data collection to support policy decisions and strategic investments in the early education sector.

Implements a grant program to fund public or private partnerships that provide opportunities for healthcare paraprofessionals to pursue higher education degrees and health professional licensure.

Amends the law consistent with the advent of iGaming and new technology. It also codifies the payment of investigatory expenses incurred by the State in limited circumstances.

Creates the occupational therapy licensure compact that would allow licensed occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants to practice in all states that join the compact.

This resolution would provide for a twelve (12) member bi-partisan commission to assemble information on constitutional questions in preparation for a vote by electors on holding a constitutional convention, and who would report back by September 1, 2024.

Exempts out-of-state businesses and their employees performing services, during declared state or federal disasters or emergencies, from state or local business requirements, as well as state or local taxes or fees