Permits those individuals convicted of multiple felonies and misdemeanors to have their records expunged and provides criteria for the court to consider in determining whether the person is of good character.
Maddy summaryHB 7576 makes traffic accident data a public record under state law, meaning anyone can request this information through standard public records procedures. However, the bill explicitly states that this data cannot be used for purposes prohibited by federal law (23 U.S.C. § 407), such as in certain damage lawsuits. Public agencies providing this data must include written notice about these federal usage restrictions when releasing the records. This change directly affects residents seeking traffic accident information and public agencies managing such records.
Requires a direct-to-consumer genetic testing company, as defined, to provide a consumer with certain information regarding the company’s policies and procedures regarding use of genetic data.
Maddy summaryHB 7734 is an amendment to the existing Consumer PFAS Ban Act of 2024, clarifying how enforcement of the ban will be carried out. It does not expand the ban to new products or change the list of covered items (like carpets, cookware, cosmetics, or menstrual products). The bill specifically refines definitions related to "intentionally added PFAS" and enforcement procedures to ensure consistent application by the Department of Environmental Management. This amendment directly affects manufacturers and importers of the covered products listed in the original law.
Amends the state building code and would require that the state adopt the 2024 International Residential Code and prohibit the state building committee from adopting amendments for one to four residential dwelling units until 2030.
Maddy summaryHB 7071 would prohibit importing, transporting, selling, distributing, or possessing non-native invasive plant species in Rhode Island. It directly affects businesses and individuals handling these plants, including nurseries, landscapers, and residents. Violations could result in fines up to $500, with the state director defining which plants are prohibited. The law would take effect on January 1, 2027, pending final rulemaking.
Requires the department of elementary and secondary education and DOH to adopt policies, rules and regulations for the administration of seizure rescue medications for children who have been medically identified as having epilepsy/seizure disorder.
Maddy summaryHB 7674 defines public-private partnerships (PPPs) for state property and construction projects, establishing rules for state agencies to use them when they offer "value for money." It requires agencies to evaluate PPPs using cost, quality, and performance comparisons, and mandates that all PPP contracts include prevailing wage requirements, labor harmony plans, and value analysis by experts. The bill directs the chief purchasing officer to create implementation rules by July 2027, consulting with contractors, labor groups, and design professionals. It directly affects state agencies, private contractors, and workers by setting standards for how PPPs are solicited, awarded, and overseen for projects like infrastructure and public buildings.
Maddy summaryHB 7568 allows cities or towns to waive interest on overdue property tax payments for commercial or residential properties, but only under strict conditions. To qualify, property owners must have owned the property for five years, made all tax payments on time for five years, submit a written request, and have the overdue bill issued within two years. The waiver covers interest only (not the tax amount itself), with a maximum reduction of $500 per request. Local governments must create ordinances to implement this, and decisions must be documented with a notice to the city council. The bill does not change tax rates or obligations but provides limited relief for late payments meeting specific criteria.
Requires shooting ranges to post signs in any area in which shooting occurs that contain the following language: “WARNING: If you or a loved one is experiencing distress and/or depression, call the 988 Suicide and Crisis hotline or text “HOME” to 741741”.
