Rep. Leo Felix

Maddy summaryHB 7210 adopts the Uniform Partition of Heirs' Property Act to streamline the division of family-owned real estate held in tenancy in common without clear ownership agreements. It directly affects property owners (cotenants) where 20% or more of interests are held by relatives or acquired through family inheritance. Key provisions require courts to determine if property qualifies as "heirs' property," order appraisals for fair market value, and allow cotenants to buy out others seeking a sale. The act replaces standard partition rules for qualifying properties and mandates specific notice procedures, applying to cases filed after January 1, 2027.

Provides any student, who meets the requirements of this section, with an exemption from paying nonresident tuition at Rhode Island public universities, colleges, or community colleges.

Grants tenants that are the victim of various forms of abuse including, but not limited to, sexual and domestic abuse and stalking, the right to terminate a lease agreement early without penalty or liability for rent. Effective 7/1/26.

Amends certain signature requirements and deadlines regarding primaries for election of delegates to national conventions for presidential preference.

Maddy summaryThis resolution honors Representative David Morales for his dedicated service to the people of Providence and the State of Rhode Island. It recognizes his legislative achievements, including advocating for workers' rights, affordable healthcare, and library protections, as well as his personal background and recent announcement of his candidacy for Mayor of Providence. The House formally thanks him for his contributions and directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to him.

Maddy summaryHB 7644 increases filing and writ of execution fees in Rhode Island's district, superior, and family courts. For example, district court small claims fees rise from $55 to $75, other civil actions from $80 to $100, and writs of execution from $20 to $40. The bill also specifies that $5-$20 of each filing fee (depending on case type) will be directed to Rhode Island Legal Services, a provider of free legal aid. These changes apply to all civil filings in the three court types and take effect upon passage. The bill does not alter court procedures or create new legal requirements, only adjusting fee amounts.

Amends what is considered sexual abuse for purposes of limitations on actions based on sexual abuse or exploitation of a child and would amend the provisions for when a cause of action may be brought.

Maddy summaryThis bill expands the definition of "employee" under Rhode Island's Fair Employment Practices law to include individuals working in domestic service, thereby extending anti-discrimination protections to domestic workers. The legislation updates various legal definitions within the state's employment chapter to clarify terms related to gender identity, race, disability, and religious accommodation. By making these changes, the bill ensures that domestic workers are covered by the same safeguards against discrimination as other employees in the state.

Amends the audit compliance requirements for municipalities' contributions to pension plans under the budget of accounts and installation of systems chapter.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates May 2026 as 'ALS Awareness Month' in Rhode Island to highlight Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, a progressive disease that affects muscle control and has no cure. The resolution aims to encourage state residents to learn about ALS and support those living with the condition, as well as researchers working toward a treatment. It directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to ALS United RI, the state's local chapter of the national ALS Association.