Extends certain protocols applicable to vehicle manufacturers to their distributors and factory branches, updates definitions relative to common entities and sales.
Maddy summaryHB 5845 requires major water suppliers in Rhode Island (those serving over 50 million gallons annually) to create and maintain flood resilience plans by 2026. These plans must assess risks like flooding and hurricanes, evaluate infrastructure and chemical safety, and outline response strategies. Suppliers must submit initial assessments by July 2026 to state officials and update plans every three years. The bill aims to strengthen drinking water system preparedness against natural disasters without specifying funding or enforcement details. The measure is pending further committee review after a March 2025 hearing.
Maddy summaryHB 5941 establishes a voluntary portable benefit plan for independent contractors, allowing them to access benefits like health insurance or retirement savings through a plan not tied to any single employer. The bill defines a "portable benefit plan" as an insurance product assigned to an individual, administered by either government or private entities, with contributions remaining voluntary and not affecting employment classification. Crucially, it prohibits using contributions to determine if a worker is an employee or to create employer liability for benefits like workers’ compensation. The plan aims to provide independent contractors - common in gig economy roles - with consistent access to benefits across different jobs, without altering their legal status.
Maddy summaryThis House Resolution (HR 6102) commemorates the Feast of St. Joseph (March 19) and the cultural significance of St. Joseph to Italian-Americans in Rhode Island. It formally recognizes St. Joseph as a symbol of family, faith, and hard work, particularly honoring the role of Italian immigrants in shaping Rhode Island's cultural heritage. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to the Italian American Historical Society of Rhode Island. As a commemorative resolution, it does not create new laws or affect policy.
Requires verification of an applicant's date of birth and either a Rhode Island driver's license number or state identification number on all applications seeking mail ballots and emergency mail ballots.
Requires verification of an applicant's date of birth and either a Rhode Island driver's license number or state identification number on all applications seeking mail ballots and emergency mail ballots.
Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial House resolution (HR 6105), not a substantive bill. It formally congratulates the Bryant University Men's Basketball Team for winning the America East Regular Season Championship, America East Tournament Championship, and earning a berth in the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament. The resolution specifically recognizes the team's 23-11 record, their tournament victories (including a 20-point championship game win), and individual honors for players like Earl Timberlake and coach Phil Martelli Jr. As a non-binding resolution, it has no policy impact and serves solely to acknowledge the team's athletic achievements.
Maddy summaryHB 5856 prohibits employers, schools, landlords, and other entities from requiring COVID-19 vaccinations, testing, or mask mandates without offering specific opt-outs. Individuals can decline mandates based on medical reasons (including pregnancy), religious or personal beliefs, proof of immunity via lab tests, willingness to undergo regular testing, or using employer-provided protective equipment. The law applies to relationships like employment, education, housing, and healthcare, requiring entities to provide exemption forms and allowing complaints to the attorney general if exemptions are denied. Violations may result in fines up to $50,000 per incident for larger organizations.
Allows a landlord that did not obtain a lead certificate pursuant to the lead mitigation laws of chapter 128.1 of title 42 due to the fact that the state lacks the adequate resources to conduct inspections.
Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (HR 6083) passed by the Rhode Island House of Representatives to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the federal Sport Fish Restoration Program. It recognizes anglers, the sportfishing industry, state fish and wildlife agencies, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for their role in creating and sustaining the "American System of Conservation Funding." The resolution has no policy or funding impact - it solely expresses appreciation for the program's historical contributions to fisheries conservation. It does not affect any individuals, agencies, or legislative procedures.
