Provides that any schools days a public school is closed due to a declared state of emergency be deemed excused for purposes of compliance with minimum school days calendar requirements.
Enables the Rhode Island public transit authority (RIPTA) to work with the Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority (MBTA) to allow commuter rail passes to be used as dual passes for both RIPTA and MBTA.
Maddy summaryHB 7218 creates the Crook Point Bridge Authority, an independent entity separate from Providence city government and the state, to maintain the Crook Point Bascule Bridge and related property. The authority will be governed by a 3-member board appointed by the mayor (with city council approval), with members serving five-year terms and no compensation. Key provisions include the authority’s power to manage finances, enter contracts, borrow funds, and handle maintenance without burdening city or state budgets or taxes. The bill ensures the bridge’s upkeep is managed through a dedicated body, with annual financial reports submitted to city officials.
Maddy summaryThis bill creates a special legislative commission to study the need for establishing an Office of the Elder Advocate in Rhode Island. The commission will consist of thirteen members, including representatives from the legislature, legal organizations, senior advocacy groups, and older adults, who will meet to examine unmet needs and existing systems for protecting older residents. The group will provide recommendations on the structure, powers, and funding for such an office and must submit its final report to the House of Representatives by March 15, 2027.
Maddy summaryThis bill is a House Resolution from Rhode Island that congratulates Joseph Mazzulla, the head coach of the Boston Celtics, on being named the 2025-2026 NBA Coach of the Year. The resolution highlights his achievements, including leading the team to a strong record and playoff success despite an injury to star player Jayson Tatum, as well as his development of other team members. It also notes Mazzulla's background as a native of Rhode Island and his history of leadership in basketball. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to Mazzulla as an official acknowledgment of his award.
Protects bullying/psychological abuse in workplace inflicted upon employees by employers/co-employees/provides civil remedies to affected employees/fines against employers/imprisonment/fines against co-employees.
Maddy summaryThis bill designates the week of May 17-23, 2026, as "Quahog Week 2026" to honor Rhode Island's local quahog fishing industry. It directly affects seafood retailers, restaurants, and the over 500 independent fishermen who harvest clams from Narragansett Bay and coastal waters. The resolution formally recognizes the economic and cultural importance of the fishery, which supports nearly 4,300 jobs and generates approximately $420 million in annual activity. Additionally, the House encourages residents to participate in the event by purchasing and enjoying fresh quahogs throughout the year. The Secretary of State is authorized to send copies of this commemorative resolution to the Rhode Island Seafood Marketing Collaborative and the Shellfishermen's Association.
Amends the school funding formula to ensure that local education authorities do not lose funding due to disruptions in the supplemental nutrition assistance program.
Maddy summaryThis Rhode Island House resolution formally honors and celebrates Armed Forces Day on May 16, 2026, to recognize the service of all U.S. military personnel. The bill acknowledges the sacrifices made by active and reserve members and their families while thanking them for protecting the nation's freedoms. It directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to the Rhode Island Adjutant General for official record-keeping. As a commemorative measure, the legislation does not change laws or policies but serves to express state appreciation for the armed forces.
Creates a special legislative commission to study and provide recommendations relating to supporting community-based solutions to reduce the incarceration of women in Rhode Island.
