Rep. Brian Newberry

Maddy summaryHB 5449 would repeal a current law that bans retail liquor licenses within 200 feet of schools or religious institutions. This change would allow businesses to seek liquor licenses in areas previously restricted, such as near schools or churches. The bill directly affects liquor retailers seeking new locations and communities where such licenses might be issued. It does not alter other alcohol licensing rules but removes a specific geographic restriction.

Directs the office of law revision to identify, on a yearly basis, any decisions or holdings of the United States Supreme Court that would require amendments to any state statutes.

Defines "anti-Semitism" for the state human affairs commission to use while investigating and working to resolve complaints of discrimination and for the commission against prejudice and bias to use in defining hate crimes.

Adds “space force” to the branches of the military included in various sections of general law regarding the veterans home, veterans cemetery and the power of armed forces officers to take acknowledgements.

Maddy summaryHR 5414 is a ceremonial resolution celebrating the 90th birthday of Robert Edward Kenahan on February 8, 2025. It recognizes his public service history, including 20 years with the Rhode Island State Police (retiring as Detective Sergeant), U.S. Navy service during the Korean Conflict, and roles with Pinkerton Security, Westerly Hospital, and the Newport Tennis Hall of Fame. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send Kenahan a certified copy of the resolution. As a non-binding commemorative measure, it has no policy impact or direct effect on any laws or individuals beyond this symbolic gesture.

Maddy summaryThis Rhode Island House resolution (HR 5240) formally commemorates the 82nd anniversary of the "Four Chaplains" - Methodist Minister George Fox, Rabbi Alexander Goode, Dutch Reformed Minister Clark Poling, and Catholic Priest John Washington - who sacrificed their lives during World War II. The bill honors their actions on the SS Dorchester in 1943, where they gave up their life jackets to save others, leading to their deaths. It has no policy impact or affected parties; it is purely ceremonial, directing the Secretary of State to send certified copies to two veterans' organizations. The resolution passed the Rhode Island House on January 30, 2025.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution passed by the Rhode Island House of Representatives. It formally congratulates President Donald J. Trump and Vice President JD Vance on their election victory and recognizes the 2024 election as historic. The resolution has no policy impact; it simply expresses support and directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies to the President and Vice President. It does not affect any laws, regulations, or specific groups of people.

Maddy summaryThis House Resolution (HR 5153) is a ceremonial tribute expressing gratitude to the Marzilli family for operating Marzilli's Old Canteen, a Providence landmark restaurant founded in 1956. It acknowledges the establishment's 70+ years of serving Italian cuisine and fostering community gatherings, including events for local residents and officials. The resolution formally thanks the family for their contributions and directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to Sal Marzilli and the family. As a non-binding commemorative resolution, it does not create new laws or affect policy.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution expressing condolences, not a policy bill. It honors Rufina Delizo Rice, the late wife of former Rhode Island Representative Michael Rice, following her passing. The resolution formally records the House's deepest sympathies for her husband and family, acknowledging her life as a Peace Corps language instructor, university technician, and longtime daycare provider in Rhode Island. No policy changes or affected constituents are involved - this is purely a respectful tribute.

Maddy summaryHR 5060 designates January 2025 as "Rhode Island Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month" in the state. The resolution does not create new laws or provide funding - it is a symbolic observance to raise awareness about human trafficking, referencing global statistics and past national observances. The bill directs Rhode Island's Secretary of State to send certified copies to the U.S. President, Rhode Island Governor, and UN Secretary-General. This is a commemorative measure with no direct impact on individuals or new policy implementation.