Rep. Katie Kazarian

Maddy summaryThis joint resolution appropriates $500,000 from state funds to the United Way of Rhode Island for operational support of its 2-1-1 human services hotline. The 2-1-1 system provides Rhode Islanders with free, 24/7 access to confidential assistance - covering housing, healthcare, food, disaster response, and other critical services - in nearly 200 languages. The funding directly supports the hotline’s existing operations, which handled over 190,000 requests in 2023-2024. It does not create new services or policy changes but ensures continued access to an established resource for residents seeking immediate help.

Amends the Rhode Island works program to allow lawful permanent residents to receive benefits without a waiting period and increases the monthly cash benefit to one hundred percent (100%) of the federal poverty level effective July 1, 2026.

Codifies child care copayments in law, expand zero copays to families under 125% FPL, lower costs for working families, and cap most copayments at 6% while preserving a 7% statutory maximum.

Maddy summaryThis legislative resolution commemorates the 250th anniversary of the United States founding on July 4, 2026, specifically within the State of Rhode Island. It encourages citizens, schools, and organizations to participate in events that reflect on American history and the principles of liberty and federalism. Additionally, the bill directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to the Governor of Rhode Island.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House Resolution that formally expresses condolences to the families of numerous Rhode Island officials who have recently passed away. It directly affects the bereaved families of these individuals by offering the House's sympathy and requesting that a memorial be sent to them. The resolution lists the names of the deceased, including representatives, speakers, and other state officials, and instructs the Secretary of State to transmit the memorial.

Maddy summaryThis House Resolution reaffirms the friendship between Rhode Island and Taiwan while encouraging stronger bilateral relations. The bill urges the state government to promote trade by establishing a Taiwan Caucus in the legislature, potentially opening a trade office in Taiwan, and signing an economic cooperation agreement. It also supports Taiwan's participation in international organizations such as the World Health Organization and the International Civil Aviation Organization.

Maddy summaryHR 8542 is a House resolution that formally extends congratulations to a wide range of individuals and organizations in Rhode Island for their achievements and milestones. The bill directly affects recipients such as centenarians, student athletes, business leaders, and community groups by officially recognizing their specific accomplishments, including state championships, academic honors, and retirement from public service. Key provisions include listing each honoree alongside the specific event or award being celebrated, such as the 100th birthdays of Lawrence John Glynn and Viola Lanza or the state wrestling titles won by middle school wrestlers. This procedural measure serves as a public record of commendation rather than establishing new laws or policies.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution that celebrates the 160th anniversary of Child & Family, a Rhode Island organization founded in 1866 to support children and families. It formally recognizes the group's long history of providing services such as early childhood education, foster care, and housing assistance, while also honoring its staff and volunteers. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the document to the organization's leadership as a mark of appreciation.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution that congratulates Thawn Sherenté Harris on finishing the 2026 Boston Marathon and honors the legacy of his great-uncle, Ellison "Tarzan" Brown. The document recognizes Harris's achievement as a ceremonial act to commemorate the 90th anniversary of Brown's first marathon victory and highlights his specific performance details, such as running barefoot to mimic Brown's historic run. By transmitting a certified copy of this resolution to Harris, the bill formally acknowledges his perseverance and cultural significance without altering any laws or policies.

Proposes a bond measure to authorize the State of Rhode Island to issue up to $36,000,000 in bonds, subject to voter approval, to support the Boys and Girls Clubs.