Reduces the cigarette tax imposed by 75% for any modified risk tobacco product as defined in § 21 U.S.C. 387 k as a tobacco product sold/distributed to reduce the harm/risk of tobacco-related disease associated with commercially marketed tobacco products.
Limits the ability for any federal immigration authority to investigate, detain, apprehend or arrest any individuals for potential violations of federal immigration laws without a judicial warrant within certain protected locations.
Maddy summaryHB 5887 would rename the second Monday in August from "Victory Day" to "Peace and Remembrance Day" in Rhode Island. This change directly affects state holidays observed by government employees and public institutions. The bill repeals a provision prohibiting the use of any name other than "Victory Day" for this holiday. It takes effect upon passage, reflecting a shift from commemorating military victory to emphasizing peace and the civilian impacts of war.
Maddy summaryHB 5680 would allow workers to receive unemployment benefits if they are on strike or locked out due to a labor dispute, directly affecting employees involved in workplace conflicts. The bill modifies eligibility rules so workers aren’t automatically disqualified for benefits during strikes (if not responsible for the dispute) or lockouts (unless the employer offers a 3-day wage extension that’s refused or the lockout responds to a strike at another company in a multi-employer group). It also ensures benefits continue for more than a week after a dispute ends. The law would take effect immediately upon passage, changing current rules that typically deny benefits during labor disputes.
Maddy summaryThis resolution (HR 6197) declares April as "Holocaust & Genocide Awareness Month" in Rhode Island. It encourages history and social science educators in public schools to incorporate lessons about past and current genocides into their curriculum, aligning with the state's existing 2016 education requirements and the work of the Rhode Island Holocaust and Genocide Education Commission. The resolution does not create new laws but formally recognizes the importance of educating students to prevent future atrocities, urging a commitment to combat bigotry and injustice.
Maddy summaryThis resolution (HR 6196) is a symbolic proclamation designating April 6-12, 2025, as "National Library Week" in Rhode Island. It formally recognizes libraries as community hubs that provide free access to resources, promote digital equity, and support diverse populations. The resolution encourages all residents to visit libraries during this week and directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies to Rhode Island libraries and the Office of Library and Information Services. As a procedural resolution, it has no legal effect but serves to honor library services.
Makes several amendments to the cannabis act relating to applications for licensure, the social equity assistance program and the application of cannabis tax revenue.
Establishes the restrictive housing oversight committee ("committee") for the purpose of monitoring the use of restrictive housing ("solitary confinement"), as well as disciplinary and administrative confinement at the department of corrections.
Amends the constitution to guarantee Rhode Island residents with equal opportunity to receive an education that is adequate, equitable and meaningful and provides judicial enforcement of this provision.
Repeals 42-56-38.1 and requires the department of corrections to provide free communication services to inmates and juveniles held in residential placement or detention centers and requires that those facilities provide in-person contact visits.
