Rep. David Place

Maddy summaryHB 7644 increases filing and writ of execution fees in Rhode Island's district, superior, and family courts. For example, district court small claims fees rise from $55 to $75, other civil actions from $80 to $100, and writs of execution from $20 to $40. The bill also specifies that $5-$20 of each filing fee (depending on case type) will be directed to Rhode Island Legal Services, a provider of free legal aid. These changes apply to all civil filings in the three court types and take effect upon passage. The bill does not alter court procedures or create new legal requirements, only adjusting fee amounts.

Prohibits health insurance companies or other payors from including in physician participation agreements any provisions that restrict or prevent a physician from charging patients reasonable administrative or operational fees to support overhead.

Requires any licensed lab performing blood lead analyses of a child under 6 to be certified by the director and said laboratory must perform this test regardless of the child or child’s parent’s ability to pay and at no cost.

Maddy summaryHB 7152 increases the property tax exemption for veterans from $1,000 to $6,000 specifically for municipal taxes. This directly affects veterans who own property in municipalities covered by this bill. The key provision raises the exemption amount, reducing the taxable value of their primary residence. The bill is currently pending in the House Municipal Government & Housing committee after being referred on January 16, 2026.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution that honors the 241st Bristol Fourth of July Celebration, which marks the oldest continuous Independence Day event in the United States. It specifically recognizes seven individuals for their leadership and service in organizing the 2026 festivities, including the General Chairwoman, Chief Marshal, speakers, and representatives for the Miss Fourth of July pageant. The resolution also acknowledges the participation of Navy and Coast Guard vessels in the event. Finally, it directs the Secretary of State to send official copies of the resolution to the named honorees.

Amends the audit compliance requirements for municipalities' contributions to pension plans under the budget of accounts and installation of systems chapter.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution that formally thanks and honors the groundskeepers, maintenance staff, and cemetery specialists at the Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Exeter. It recognizes these employees for their dedicated work in maintaining the 280-acre site, which serves as the final resting place for over 30,000 veterans and their families. The resolution specifically acknowledges the professionalism and respect shown by the staff, noting that some are veterans themselves and that they are state employees under the Office of Veterans Services. Finally, it directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to the Office of Veterans Services and the cemetery staff as a gesture of appreciation.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House Resolution from Rhode Island that congratulates Joseph Mazzulla, the head coach of the Boston Celtics, on being named the 2025-2026 NBA Coach of the Year. The resolution highlights his achievements, including leading the team to a strong record and playoff success despite an injury to star player Jayson Tatum, as well as his development of other team members. It also notes Mazzulla's background as a native of Rhode Island and his history of leadership in basketball. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to Mazzulla as an official acknowledgment of his award.

Maddy summaryThis bill declares May 2026 as Wildfire Awareness Month in Rhode Island to promote public education on wildfire prevention and preparedness. The resolution directly affects state residents and officials by encouraging awareness of wildfire risks and safe practices during the designated month. It serves as a commemorative measure to recognize the efforts of firefighters and emergency responders while highlighting the state's existing wildfire management programs. The bill does not create new laws or funding but focuses on raising awareness through an official state designation.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution that formally recognizes and celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Rhode Island Academy of Physician Assistants. It honors the organization's leadership and contributions to healthcare in Rhode Island over the past five decades. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the document to the academy as an official acknowledgment.