Maddy summaryHB 7610 requires Rhode Island's Public Utilities Commission (PUC) and Division of Public Utilities and Carriers (DPUC) to produce a comprehensive study by April 30, 2027, aimed at lowering energy rates for consumers. The study must compare Rhode Island's electric and gas rates with other states, review all state energy programs that increase costs, and identify policies or practices that could be changed to reduce bills. The PUC will use $100,000 in funding to hire consultants and develop a research plan, including recommendations for transparent "energy notes" on future legislation affecting costs. This bill directly affects Rhode Island residents who pay energy bills by directing state agencies to investigate cost-reduction strategies.
Sponsored bills
Requires any public utility company that needs to close any state or municipal roadway for work to provide notice to all residential and business property owners located within 1,000 ft of the closed highway at least 48 hrs before the road closure.
Authorizes a property owner to pursue reasonable actions to protect their property from coastal hazards that affect life, infrastructure, or essential land uses without prior approval.
Expands Rhode Island Housing’s authority to revise the qualified allocation plan to prioritize cost-efficient affordable housing production and total units, while reducing the scoring weight of non-production-related criteria.
Maddy summaryThis bill officially designates April 2026 as Alcohol Awareness Month in Rhode Island to highlight the dangers of alcohol abuse and promote public education. The resolution cites statistics on alcohol-related health risks, economic costs, and emergency room visits to underscore the need for community outreach. It directs the Secretary of State to send copies of the proclamation to the Governor and various state health officials. The measure is a symbolic gesture intended to encourage participation in existing awareness initiatives rather than implementing new laws or policies.
Maddy summaryThis bill designates April 2026 as 'Second Chance Month' in Rhode Island to raise awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with past arrest or conviction records. The resolution highlights how background checks and legal barriers often limit opportunities for employment, housing, and education for these individuals. It formally recognizes the importance of second chances and directs the Secretary of State to send copies of the resolution to specific community organizations focused on formerly incarcerated people.
Maddy summaryThis bill requires retailers to keep money from gift certificate sales in a separate account until customers use or redeem the certificates. The rule applies to businesses selling gift certificates for their own products but exempts certificates given out for free through loyalty or promotional programs. Once a certificate is fully redeemed, the retailer can move the corresponding funds back to their regular business account. The measure aims to protect consumer funds by ensuring they are set aside before being spent.
Maddy summaryHB 7179, the "Charlotte A. Vacca Act," requires commercial property owners to install vehicle barriers meeting Rhode Island building code standards at retail establishments (stores selling food or goods) as part of new construction. It also encourages owners to add barriers at existing locations for pedestrian safety, while mandating compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act for accessibility. The bill includes a provision requiring insurers to offer premium discounts for properties with installed barriers, subject to approval by the insurance commissioner. This law directly affects retail property owners and aims to reduce vehicle-impact risks to pedestrians and occupants. It takes effect upon passage.
Maddy summaryHB 7204 would allow individuals with multiple non-violent felony convictions to petition for the removal of their criminal records after completing their sentences for 10 years. This applies to people with more than one felony conviction (excluding crimes of violence) who have paid all court fees and fines, maintained a clean record for 10 years, and demonstrated good moral character. The bill amends existing expungement laws to expand eligibility beyond single offenses, specifically targeting those with multiple non-violent felony convictions. It does not apply to violent felony convictions or cases involving certain offenses under Chapter 29 of Title 12.
Maddy summaryHB 7281 reduces the waiting period for expunging criminal records. It shortens the time to 3 years after completing a sentence for a single misdemeanor, and 5 years for felonies or multiple misdemeanors (down from 5 and 10 years, respectively). The bill applies to people with eligible non-violent convictions who have paid all court fees and fines. Violent crime convictions and certain offenses under specific statutes remain ineligible for expungement. The changes take effect upon passage.