Establishes rules and procedures for licensing emergency shelters for homeless persons, including setting minimum standards and prohibiting the charging of fees to the residents.
Maddy summaryHB 7353 amends Rhode Island's 2015 Comprehensive Community-Police Relationship Act to require police departments to collect detailed data during traffic stops (including officer-perceived race/ethnicity, stop reasons, and outcomes) and submit it monthly to the Department of Transportation's Office of Highway Safety. It mandates an annual external study analyzing this data for racial disparities in traffic stops and searches, to be conducted by a qualified independent agency chosen by the Office of Highway Safety. The study's findings, along with quarterly public summary reports showing racial and demographic breakdowns of stops, must be released annually. This directly affects all Rhode Island municipal police departments and the state police, requiring them to implement new data collection and reporting procedures. The law aims to provide transparent, data-driven insights into policing practices without speculating on outcomes.
Bans the sale of parrots at pet stores from a breeder or broker. The pet store may sell parrots obtained from animal care facilities or animal rescue organizations. The sale also prohibits at any outdoor markets or retail parking lots.
Maddy summaryThis bill is a commemorative resolution designating February 10, 2026, as "The 3rd Rhode Island Regiment/Black Regiment Recognition Day" to honor Black soldiers who served in the integrated 1st Rhode Island Regiment during the Revolutionary War (1778-1783). It specifically recognizes their contributions, including their role in the 1778 Battle of Portsmouth where they repelled British forces. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies to historical organizations, the Governor, congressional delegation, and relevant groups to promote awareness of this history. As a symbolic gesture, it does not create new laws or policies but aims to increase public recognition of Black soldiers' role in the American Revolution.
Maddy summaryThis bill is a ceremonial resolution designating February 7-14, 2026, as "Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week" in Rhode Island. It does not create new laws or policies but formally recognizes the impact of congenital heart defects - such as septal defects or hypoplastic left heart syndrome - on newborns and families. The resolution urges Rhode Island citizens to observe the week and acknowledges medical efforts to improve outcomes for affected children. As a procedural resolution, it has no direct policy impact beyond raising awareness.
Requires as part of the director of administration’s report to the general assembly to include information on the number of hybrid, combustion engine, plug-in hybrid, and ZEV vehicles in the light duty fleet. This act would take effect upon passage.
Maddy summaryHB 7382 requires all motorcycle operators in the state to wear a helmet, regardless of age. This applies directly to every person riding a motorcycle, eliminating existing age-based exemptions for helmet use. The bill's key provision mandates helmet use as a standard safety requirement for all motorcycle operators, without exceptions. The bill was introduced on January 28, 2026, and is currently scheduled for hearing on February 10, 2026.
Require that the classification guide to desk audit analysis and class specification development be amended so that the lack of supervision of other employees not prevent an employee from receiving a classification upgrade
Creates a 9-member commission to study and provide recommendations to reduce the forty-hour workweek to a thirty-two-hour workweek, and would report back to the House by March 15, 2027, and would expire on June 15, 2027.
Prohibits psychological abuse in the workplace by employers or co-workers, ensuring a safe environment for employees, provides protection, civil remedies, and penalties for employers based on revenue.
