Rep. Marvin Abney

Maddy summaryThis resolution formally recognizes and celebrates the 27th annual Funda Fest, organized by Rhode Island Black Storytellers (RIBS), a nonprofit promoting Black storytelling through performances and educational experiences. It urges all Rhode Islanders to engage with the event, which focuses on sharing Black history, values, and traditions often absent from mainstream narratives. The resolution has no policy impact; it is a ceremonial acknowledgment directing the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to RIBS.

Maddy summaryHB 5075 revises funding allocations for the state's fiscal year 2025 budget. It adjusts specific line items across state agencies, including increased funding for public health response, community learning centers, and municipal infrastructure projects, while modifying existing general revenue and federal fund allocations. The bill reallocates existing budget authority without creating new programs or policies. It directly affects state agencies managing these funds, such as public health departments and infrastructure programs, for the 2025 fiscal year.

Designates Sapowet Marsh Management Area, comprised of two hundred ninety-six (296) acres, more or less, located within the town of Tiverton and Sapowet Cove as open space to be utilized for passive outdoor recreation.

Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes the state to pay specific claims for vehicle damage caused by roadway debris and defects in Rhode Island. It allocates funds to compensate four individuals who suffered property damage while driving on state routes in East Providence, Newport, Cranston, and Warwick between 2023 and 2024. The legislation directs the state controller to issue payment orders from the general treasury to cover these expenses without requiring the governor's signature.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes the Rhode Island Secure Choice Retirement Savings Program, a voluntary retirement savings initiative administered by the state's general treasurer for private sector employees. The program allows eligible workers, who have been employed for at least 120 days, to contribute to their retirement through automatic payroll deductions, with employers having the option to participate. Funds are held in individual accounts that offer a limited selection of investment options, including portfolios tailored to different risk levels and those prioritizing companies with strong environmental and social practices. The legislation also mandates that the program provide participants with education and counseling services to help them make informed financial decisions.

Authorizes Newport to issue not more than $98,500,000 general obligation bonds and notes to finance all costs relating to the design, construction, repair, rehabilitation, replacement and improvement of infrastructure and municipal facilities

Enables cities and towns to enact enabling legislation authorizing a partner program to assist students with an IEP for specially designed physical education classes.

Increases passenger landing and boarding fees for passenger cruise vessels landing at a dock in Newport from three dollars ($3.00) to ten dollars ($10.00).

This resolution would provide for a twelve (12) member bi-partisan commission to assemble information on constitutional questions in preparation for a vote by electors on holding a constitutional convention, and who would report back by September 1, 2024.

Provides that upon application, and good cause, the state may waive the bonding requirement for certified minority business enterprises or women owned businesses.