Rep. Stephen Casey

Maddy summaryHB 7580 requires public agencies to provide electronic public records stored in computer systems at no cost when requested. This applies to all public records maintained in digital formats, eliminating fees for copies or delivery (whether as printouts or electronic files) upon request. The bill directly affects government agencies that manage electronic records and members of the public seeking access to them. It takes effect immediately upon passage and does not change existing requirements for physical records or the 10-business-day response timeframe.

Exempts certain cookware that contains perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances or PFAS that are authorized by the FDA for food contact for consumer goods from the provision of the consumer PFAS ban act of 2024.

Maddy summaryHB 7918 modifies backflow prevention testing requirements for public water systems. It changes the current yearly inspection mandate to a requirement that backflow prevention devices be tested only once every ten years, unless an emergency or public health situation necessitates more frequent checks. This directly affects all community and non-community public water systems serving residential and commercial properties. The bill focuses on reducing regulatory burden on water providers while maintaining safety standards through periodic testing. It does not alter other provisions about device installation or certification.

Maddy summaryHB 7913 would require food service businesses (like restaurants and cafes) to make single-use plastic straws available for customers to take directly from a dispenser, rather than automatically providing them. This changes current practice by shifting responsibility to the customer to actively take a straw if desired. The law would take effect immediately upon passage, applying to all covered establishments. It directly affects how businesses distribute straws but does not ban plastic straws or alter other food service regulations.

Reduces the newspaper advertising notice requirements for amendments to zoning ordinances and planning board meetings from three (3) weeks to two (2) weeks.

Eliminates fingerprinting fees for licensed childcare hires, require background checks for youth activity instructors, and allow active TS/SCI clearance to satisfy criminal background check requirements.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House Resolution that celebrates La Francophonie, the French-speaking world, by authorizing a flag-raising ceremony at the Rhode Island State House on March 26, 2026. It directly affects the Alliance Française de Providence, the French consulate, and Rhode Island residents with French heritage or language skills. The resolution formally welcomes these groups to commemorate French culture and language, recognizing the state's 124,000 residents of French descent and the organization's 250-member community. The Secretary of State is directed to send a certified copy of the resolution to the Alliance Française de Providence to acknowledge the partnership. This measure serves as a commemorative gesture rather than a substantive policy change.

Requires specific notice of the tax sale to the taxpayer with a copy of this § 44-9-10 attached thereto. Failure to do so would render the tax sale null and void.

Tolls the statute of limitations for causes of action arising out of business activities conducted in this state by a person or entity required to register with the secretary of state but failing to do so, until such person or entity becomes registered.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows caterers with a Class P license to purchase alcoholic beverages from either retail or wholesale stores in Rhode Island, expanding their sourcing options beyond previous restrictions. It requires caterers to follow specific service rules, including ID checks for under-30 guests, limiting drinks to two at a time, prohibiting shots, and serving only during five-hour event windows. Caterers may also leave alcohol at an event host's residence if under their continuous control during the event. Violations carry $500 fines and risk license revocation.