Rep. Matthew Dawson

Maddy summaryHB 5890 prohibits anyone under 18 from possessing a firearm in Rhode Island, except in specific supervised situations. It allows minors to use firearms only at approved camps or ranges with a parent, guardian, or "qualified adult" (21+ with legal firearm rights), during supervised hunting, ROTC, competitive shooting, or firearms education programs. The bill also permits minors to carry unloaded firearms in a case to/from these approved locations when accompanied by a parent, guardian, or qualified adult. These provisions take effect upon passage and directly affect minors under 18 seeking to possess or transport firearms.

Maddy summaryHouse Resolution 6131, passed by the Rhode Island House of Representatives on March 25, 2025, is a ceremonial resolution congratulating Carol Gibson on her retirement after 38 years of service with the Rhode Island state government. It specifically recognizes her 34 years of dedicated work at the Department of Labor and Training, including her final role as Administrator of the Board of Review, and highlights her career progression from Claims Interviewer to leadership positions. The resolution formally honors her contributions, leadership, and mentorship to colleagues, without creating any new laws or policy changes.

Provides for municipal and state police authorities to acquire and to utilize automated license plate readers. Further, the act identifies what data may be collected and in what ways the data can be used.

Expands the definition of peace officers to include juvenile program workers and shift coordinators at the department of youth, children and families.

Expands meaning of bomb threats and false reports to include any warning or threat of the existence of an explosive device and allows judge to impose conditions of bail to include extreme risk protection orders, no trespass orders and counseling.

Maddy summaryThis non-binding resolution requests Rhode Island's Division of Public Utilities and Carriers (DPUC) to seek immediate rate relief from Rhode Island Energy for residents and businesses facing high utility costs, particularly low-income households, seniors, and small businesses. It asks the DPUC to take action similar to Massachusetts' approach and report progress by April 22, 2025. The resolution does not change rates but formally urges the regulator to address the financial burden.

Requires EOHHS to develop a budget and seek funding to establish an early childhood mental health hub program to improve access to infant and early childhood mental health services for children under six (6) years and their families.

Permits a tenant, at the tenant’s expense, to implement energy conservation measures to any dwelling or dwelling unit such as removable weather-stripping around doors and windows.

Maddy summaryThis Rhode Island House resolution (HR 6081) formally celebrates St. Patrick's Day and honors Ireland's historical contributions to the U.S. War of Independence. It recognizes Irish immigrants' roles in founding Rhode Island and their service in Revolutionary War battles like Bunker Hill, as well as Ireland's diplomatic ties with the U.S. since 1924. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies to Irish-American state legislators across 10 states, including members of the American Irish State Legislators Caucus. As a ceremonial resolution, it creates no new laws or funding but affirms cultural and historical connections. It was passed by the Rhode Island House on March 13, 2025.

Requires a person selling real property to provide disclosures as it relates to flooding on the property which occurred either through natural events or mechanical failures.