Extends the current provisions relative to certain rights of innkeepers and eliminates the sunsetting of such sections thereby preserving the law as it currently exists.
Maddy summaryThis bill asks the Executive Climate Change Coordinating Council to create a detailed report on how to track energy use and improve performance in large Rhode Island buildings, which are defined as those with at least 25,000 square feet of floor space. The report must cover topics such as current energy sources, estimated costs for upgrades, and a timeline for implementing new standards, while also considering input from the public and relevant committees. The legislation directs the council to submit this document to state legislative leaders and make it available online by February 15, 2025. Ultimately, the bill seeks to gather specific data and recommendations to guide future policy decisions regarding building efficiency rather than establishing new rules immediately.
Provides minor technical changes, including an update to the membership of the state planning council to include the secretary of housing or designee, and provides clarifying language relating to the role of the technical committee.
Requires school districts to provide the parent/guardian of a student with an individualized education program (IEP) with information concerning the achieving a better life experience (ABLE) account program benefits and the program application process.
Maddy summaryThis bill creates a program to track energy and water use in large commercial buildings in Rhode Island, aiming to help the state reach its net-zero emissions goal by 2050. It requires buildings with at least 25,000 square feet of floor area to report their performance using tools like the EPA's ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager and sets future standards for how efficiently these buildings must operate. Owners of covered properties who do not meet these standards or reporting requirements may have to pay a compliance fee instead. The Office of Energy Resources will manage the program, develop rules for implementation, and ensure enough staff and funding are available to carry it out.
Creates a 17 member commission to study the issues confronting the State due to climate change, and who would report back to the House by May 14, 2025, and expire on June 18, 2025.
Maddy summaryThis House Resolution expresses the Rhode Island House of Representatives' condolences on the death of William L. Drapeau, a former state representative from East Providence. The bill directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to Drapeau's widow, Elaine, and his family. It serves as a formal acknowledgment of his service to the state and does not alter any laws or policies.
Provides for the operation and duties of natural organic reduction for the contained, accelerated conversion of human remains to soil. A disposition facility would be used for either cremation or natural organic reduction.
Prohibits an educational institution or school district from accessing or using location data for tracking a student's institutional device or personal device, except in limited circumstances.
Maddy summaryThis bill expands the existing crime of false reporting to include false claims about shootings or other dangerous events, directly affecting individuals who make such reports via telephone or other means. Under the new provisions, anyone who knowingly transmits a false warning about a shooting that causes fear, prompts an evacuation, or triggers a law enforcement response could face up to ten years in prison, a fine of $1,000, or both. The legislation also allows courts to impose specific conditions on bail for those charged, such as extreme risk protection orders, no trespass orders, or referrals for mental health and substance abuse treatment.
