Rep. June Speakman

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates January 30, 2026, as "Fred Korematsu Day of Civil Liberties and the Constitution" in Rhode Island. It commemorates Fred Korematsu, who challenged the WWII internment of Japanese Americans, and encourages Rhode Islanders to reflect on civil liberties and constitutional rights. The resolution has no policy impact - it is purely commemorative, recognizing Korematsu's legacy and promoting civic education through an upcoming public event. It was passed by the Rhode Island House on January 29, 2026.

Modifies the real estate sales disclosure form to include the disclosure of “blower door diagnostic air leakage testing” and advises that air leakage testing is recommended prior to purchasing a residential unit.

Requires the producer of artificial turf and turf infill sold or distributed in RI to report its chain of custody, from installation to use, repurposing, recycling and disposal to the department of environmental management.

Requires the department of transportation to plant pollinator friendly native species of trees, shrubs, grasses and plants within limits of a roadway, including state highways

Maddy summaryHB 7086 designates rhythm and blues (defined as music blending pop, soul, funk, hip-hop, and electronic elements) as the state music. This ceremonial bill does not impose any new regulations, taxes, or obligations on residents or businesses - it solely establishes a symbolic recognition of the genre. The bill would take effect immediately upon passage, adding this designation to the state's official emblems. It affects no individuals or entities directly, as it is purely a cultural and symbolic measure.

Authorizes the DEM, in conjunction with state and local law enforcement, to enforce the prohibition on the intentional simultaneous release of ten or more balloons.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (HR 7015) passed by the Rhode Island House of Representatives on January 8, 2026. It formally expresses condolences to the family of Lawrence Ferguson, a former Rhode Island State Representative (1985-2000) and longtime educator. The resolution sends condolences specifically to his wife Francine Ferguson and their children Alyssa, Colin, and Jonathan Ferguson. It has no policy impact or direct effect on any laws or constituents, serving only as a symbolic tribute to his life and service.

Adds the property of the Pokanoket Management Group, Trustee of the Pokanoket Tribe Land Trust, to the list of property designated for appropriations in lieu of municipal property tax, would concurrently exempt such property from municipal property tax.

Provides that any disaster response worker shall, in the course of their duties, be considered a state employee and be entitled to all rights in like manner as state employees.

Establishes that a renewable energy resource shall pay $5.00 per kilowatt of alternating current nameplate capacity for tangible property and $3.50 per kilowatt of alternating nameplate capacity for real property.