Maddy summaryHB 7054 establishes guidelines to expand and sustain public prekindergarten programs for all Rhode Island children aged 3 and 4. It requires the state to ensure at least 70% of these children enroll in high-quality programs through a mixed delivery system including public schools, Head Start, and licensed child care. The bill mandates research-based quality standards covering teacher qualifications, class sizes, curriculum, and support for children with special needs or who are learning English. It also requires competitive wages for prekindergarten teachers (comparable to K teachers) and directs 30% of new prekindergarten funding to expand infant and toddler care programs. The law directly affects children, early educators, and child care providers across Rhode Island.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis House Resolution (HR 7711) formally congratulates the Berntson family on the 50th anniversary of Diamond Hill Vineyards in Cumberland, Rhode Island. It directly affects the Berntson family, the founders and current owners of the family-run vineyard. The resolution, passed by the Rhode Island House of Representatives on February 11, 2026, expresses legislative recognition of the vineyard’s history since its founding in 1976 and directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to the family. It contains no policy changes or funding provisions, serving solely as a ceremonial tribute.
Maddy summaryThis resolution formally congratulates James Parisi on retiring after 30 years as a lobbyist for the Rhode Island Federation of Teachers and Health Professionals (RIFTHP), which represents over 10,000 educators, health professionals, and state employees. The House expressed appreciation for his work advising lawmakers on education, healthcare, and labor issues, noting his integrity and institutional knowledge. It directs the Secretary of State to send Parisi a certified copy of the resolution. As a ceremonial resolution with no policy changes, it does not affect legislation or funding.
Maddy summaryHB 7382 requires all motorcycle operators in the state to wear a helmet, regardless of age. This applies directly to every person riding a motorcycle, eliminating existing age-based exemptions for helmet use. The bill's key provision mandates helmet use as a standard safety requirement for all motorcycle operators, without exceptions. The bill was introduced on January 28, 2026, and is currently scheduled for hearing on February 10, 2026.
Prohibits members of elected city/town political party committees as well as representative/senate district committees from serving on local canvassing authorities.
Maddy summaryHB 7497 provides state agencies with a specific definition of antisemitism - adopted by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) in 2016 - to evaluate potential discrimination cases. The bill requires state agencies to use this definition when reviewing, investigating, or determining violations of anti-discrimination laws, including those based on religion or country of origin. It also mandates that state personnel use this definition in anti-bias training and ensures the law does not infringe on First Amendment rights or conflict with existing federal or state discrimination laws. The bill applies directly to state government operations, not private individuals or businesses. It takes effect upon passage.
Caps amount payable for 30 day supply of equipment/supplies for insulin administration/glucose monitoring at $25 or equipment designed to last more than 30 days with no deductible commencing January 1, 2027.
Maddy summaryThis House Resolution formally recognizes January 27, 2026, as "International Holocaust Remembrance Day" in Rhode Island, commemorating the 81st anniversary of Auschwitz's liberation. It encourages Rhode Island citizens to engage in educational activities and reflect on the Holocaust's history and lessons. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies to Holocaust museums and community organizations in Rhode Island. It does not create new laws or obligations but serves as a symbolic commitment to remembering Holocaust victims and combating antisemitism.
Maddy summaryHB 7235 clarifies that Rhode Island's General Assembly retains exclusive authority to approve or deny nuclear plant construction projects, explicitly reserving this power despite other state or local laws. The bill amends Section 42-64-14.1 of the General Laws to maintain legislative oversight for nuclear plant projects, ensuring they require direct General Assembly approval rather than relying on other regulatory processes. This change directly affects developers seeking to build nuclear facilities in Rhode Island, as they must now obtain specific legislative approval before construction. The bill does not eliminate the approval requirement but formally reinforces the General Assembly’s jurisdiction over such projects. The measure is currently pending further study after committee consideration.
Maddy summaryHB 7065 requires all liquid beverages sold in Rhode Island to reduce their added sugars content by 50% by January 1, 2030, compared to the sugar levels measured on July 1, 2026. The law applies directly to beverage manufacturers and retailers operating within Rhode Island, mandating reformulation to meet the new standard. "Added sugars" is defined using existing FDA labeling rules (21 CFR Part 101), ensuring consistency with federal guidelines. The bill establishes a clear timeline for implementation without specifying enforcement mechanisms or exemptions.