Rep. Karen Alzate

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Rhode Island's long-term economic development policy to require the inclusion of climate change, sea-level rise, and coastal resiliency in state planning data. It establishes an economic development planning council with nineteen members, including representatives from the departments of environmental management and coastal resources, to create a unified strategy that balances business growth with equitable outcomes for all residents. The council is tasked with developing a strategic plan that sets long-term goals and measurable benchmarks, which must undergo public hearings and legislative review before final approval by the governor. Additionally, the act mandates that all state agencies cooperate with the council by providing necessary staff, data, and administrative support to implement the plan.

Maddy summaryThis resolution honors Representative Brianna Henries for her service to the people of East Providence, Pawtucket, and the State of Rhode Island. It recognizes her legislative work on issues such as housing, minimum wage, and affordable healthcare, as well as her personal commitment to helping those facing homelessness. The House of Representatives formally acknowledges her achievements and directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to her.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution that formally recognizes June 19 as Juneteenth National Freedom Day in Rhode Island. It urges citizens to observe the day to commemorate the end of slavery in the United States and to learn about the nation's history. The resolution does not change any laws or create new holidays but serves as an official statement of support for the annual celebration. It directs the Secretary of State to send a copy of the resolution to the Governor of Rhode Island.

Prohibits discrimination on the basis of race by expanding the definition of race to include traits historically associated with race, including, but not limited to, hair texture and protected hairstyles.

Prohibits the charging of any fees to a senior citizen who is 65 years of age or older for a hard-copy paper bill, invoice or statement. The violation of this provision would be a deceptive trade practice subject to a $500 fine.

Maddy summaryHB 7981 updates state laws to give Rhode Island towns and cities more flexibility in writing their local zoning rules. The bill allows municipalities to create special districts that offer development incentives, such as higher density or increased building heights, in exchange for providing public benefits like new housing, open spaces, or traffic improvements. It also permits communities to establish mixed-use zones and regulate specific features like drive-through windows and development near scenic areas. By standardizing these options, the legislation aims to help local governments better manage land use while addressing housing needs and infrastructure challenges.

Provides for paid leave for a state employee who donates an organ. The duration of the leave is dependent on the type of donation and notice should be provided to the employer at least thirty (30) days prior to the leave.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution from Rhode Island that formally celebrates the 214th anniversary of Colombian Independence Day on July 20, 2024. It recognizes the historical events leading to Colombia's freedom from Spanish rule and highlights the shared values of liberty between the United States and Colombia. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the document to the Colombian American Cultural Society and Colombia en Rhode Island to share the official recognition.

Prohibits contractors and subcontractors from paying employees the cash equivalent of any applicable healthcare benefit in lieu of actually purchasing the healthcare benefit. Violations would be subject to civil fines.

Maddy summaryThis bill expands the existing crime of false reporting to include false claims about shootings or other dangerous events, directly affecting individuals who make such reports via telephone or other means. Under the new provisions, anyone who knowingly transmits a false warning about a shooting that causes fear, prompts an evacuation, or triggers a law enforcement response could face up to ten years in prison, a fine of $1,000, or both. The legislation also allows courts to impose specific conditions on bail for those charged, such as extreme risk protection orders, no trespass orders, or referrals for mental health and substance abuse treatment.