Rep. June Speakman

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution that formally celebrates the 56th anniversary of Earth Day on April 22, 2026, in Rhode Island. It calls on state residents to learn about environmental challenges and participate in solutions, while directing the Secretary of State to send copies of the resolution to specific state environmental officials. The document serves as a commemorative acknowledgment rather than establishing new laws or regulations.

Prohibits handcuffing children twelve (12) or under at initial police contact unless needed for public safety or if the child is using or threatening physical force against an officer.

Amends the current law on teacher’s creditable service so that a teacher who takes an unpaid parental or medical leave during the year would be given credit for a year of service for that school year if they served a minimum of 135 school days.

Maddy summaryHB 7132 prohibits judges from imposing life without parole sentences on individuals convicted of homicide who were 21 years old or younger at the time of the offense. The bill directly affects juvenile defendants (ages 21 and under) in homicide cases by requiring alternative sentencing options, such as lengthy prison terms with parole eligibility. It changes sentencing guidelines to ensure youth offenders are not subject to irreversible life sentences. This policy shift applies specifically to homicide convictions under the state's criminal code.

Requires all municipal zoning ordinances be amended to provide that any lot with access to public water/sewer services, not establish or enforce a minimum lot area that exceeds 5,000 sq.ft. for a residential building with between one and 4 dwelling units.

Provides for the right to strike for public sector workers in Rhode Island, including teachers, with exceptions for police officers, firefighters, 911 employees, and correctional officers.

Establishes a state-run prescription drug purchasing pool, available for participation by nonstate public employers, private employers, and health insurance carriers, to maximize the value of drug discounts available to participants.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution honoring the life and legacy of baseball player Davey Lopes, who passed away after complications from Parkinson's disease. It recognizes his distinguished 45-year career in professional baseball, highlighting his achievements as a second baseman, base stealer, coach, and manager. The resolution expresses the House's condolences and directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the document to Lopes's family.

Maddy summaryHB 8401 strengthens the oversight of medical malpractice insurance for hospitals affiliated with accredited medical schools in Rhode Island. The bill requires these hospitals to obtain prior approval from the Department of Business Regulation before establishing or maintaining any self-insurance program for malpractice liability. To qualify, hospitals must demonstrate financial solvency, adequate reserves, and the ability to pay claims, with the department retaining the power to audit, examine, and revoke approval if standards are not met. Additionally, the legislation mandates that all forms of medical malpractice coverage, including self-insurance and captive arrangements, meet specific state-set limits and undergo annual renewal. Finally, the bill requires these entities to report claims, settlements, and judgments to relevant medical licensing boards within 30 days.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes a $25 million bond referendum to the Rhode Island voters for approval at the November 2026 election to fund a statewide bicycle infrastructure network. If approved, the state would issue bonds to finance planning, design, and construction of priority projects outlined in the Rhode Island Statewide Bicycle Mobility Plan. The funding would support building safe, connected bicycle facilities across the state to improve transportation options, reduce emissions, and promote public health. The bill requires voter approval before any bonds can be issued, ensuring public consent for the capital investment.