Maddy summaryThis bill modifies the state's abandoned property laws to allow for the sale of buildings and properties that have been declared public nuisances, with specific provisions for installing energy storage systems. When a court orders the sale of such properties, it can require the buyer to install an energy storage system as a condition of the sale, and these systems would be automatically permitted under local zoning rules without additional environmental reviews. The legislation also establishes a priority system for distributing sale proceeds, giving preference to buyers who commit to affordable housing, owner-occupancy restrictions, or energy storage installation. These changes apply to properties under receivership where public nuisance abatement has been completed or approved, affecting municipalities, receivers, and potential property buyers.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryHB 7198 clarifies the legal definitions of criminal offense categories in Rhode Island law. It specifies that a felony involves imprisonment over one year or fines over $1,000, a misdemeanor involves 6 months to one year imprisonment (or fines up to $1,000), and a petty misdemeanor involves up to six months imprisonment or fines up to $500. The bill also changes how "one year" is interpreted in sentencing to mean 364 days instead of 365 days. This technical adjustment affects all criminal cases classified under these terms in Rhode Island’s legal code, ensuring consistent application of sentencing guidelines. The bill takes effect upon passage and does not create new penalties or policies.
Protects people attending Rhode Island court proceedings from civil arrest without a judicial warrant, ensures court access, sets enforcement rules, and provides remedies for violations.
Requires the electronic filing of domestic violence/sexual assault forms by law enforcement agencies, and enhances the information to be included on the reporting forms.
For purposes of the judicial security act permits an authorized agent to file a written notice with a state, county, or municipal agency on behalf of a protected individual.
Maddy summaryHB 7265 establishes the Rhode Island Special Deposits Act to govern specific types of bank deposits held for defined purposes. It creates a legal framework where a "special deposit" is established through a written agreement (account agreement) between a bank, a depositor, and potentially beneficiaries. The bill protects these deposits from creditor actions (like garnishment) until a specific event (contingency) occurs and the bank knows about it, ensuring funds are available for their intended purpose - such as escrow, security deposits, or benefit distributions - as outlined in the agreement. This applies to banks, depositors, and beneficiaries involved in such arrangements under Rhode Island law.
Ensures that more developmentally disabled adults can self-direct the care they need and want, by incorporating collective bargaining rights into the self-directed supports program.
Requires employers to provide each employee of a warehouse distribution center, upon hire, with written description of quotas applicable to the employee within defined time periods and adverse employment action for failure to meet the quota.
Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution honoring Representative Julie A. Casimiro for her dedicated service to the people of Rhode Island as she retires. It recognizes her legislative achievements, including advocacy for children, families, veterans, and consumer protections, as well as her leadership roles within the state legislature. The resolution formally expresses gratitude for her contributions and directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the document to Representative Casimiro.
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.