Provides for warming center and cooling center alerts to trigger certain procedures municipalities shall follow during extreme heat or cold to help at-risk individuals with resources including, but not limited to, warming and cooling centers.
Maddy summarySB 709 updates Rhode Island's housing code enforcement process by requiring housing code officers to provide written violation notices to both property owners and affected tenants. The bill mandates that notices include specific details about violations, a 30-day correction period, and clear service methods (including certified mail to tenants). It also requires non-resident landlords to appoint a registered agent in the state for legal notices, with a $100 fine for non-compliance. The law ensures tenants receive copies of violation notices and hearing dates, and establishes procedures for re-inspections, second notices, and recording violations in land registries for up to three years. These changes directly affect landlords (especially non-resident owners), tenants, and local housing enforcement officers.
Permits retired superior court magistrates to be assigned to perform service pursuant to §§ 8-2-11.1, 8-2-39, 8-2-39.1 or 8-2-39.2 and be reemployed by the superior court without any forfeiture or reduction of any retirement benefits.
Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 1149) formally designates June 12, 2025, as "Cox Impact Day" in Rhode Island. It recognizes Cox Communications' charitable contributions, including over $11 million in grants for STEAM education programs and community support across environmental, youth, diversity, and technology initiatives in the state. The resolution has no binding effect and serves only as a symbolic gesture of appreciation.
Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial Senate resolution (SR 1151) honoring Bristol, Rhode Island's 240th annual Fourth of July celebration, recognized as the oldest continuous such event in the U.S. It directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies to specific individuals involved in organizing the 2025 event, including committee leaders and honorary titles like "Miss Fourth of July." The resolution has no policy impact or financial obligation, solely serving to publicly acknowledge the community event and its organizers.
Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (not a policy bill) formally congratulating Warwick Police Chief Colonel Bradford Connor on his retirement after 27+ years of service. It recognizes his career path, including roles in community policing, leadership positions within the department, and service during the pandemic at Women & Infants Hospital. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send Chief Connor a certified copy of the tribute, with no policy changes or obligations created for any other entity. It solely serves as a formal expression of appreciation from the Rhode Island Senate.
Maddy summarySB 354 increases the per-page transcription fees for court reporters in Rhode Island court proceedings. It raises the fee for original transcripts to $3.50 per page and for copies to $2.00 per page, while setting a $10.00 fee per cassette for electronic recording reproductions. This bill directly affects court reporters who provide transcripts and parties (individuals or attorneys) who request them. The change applies to all civil and criminal cases in superior, family, district, and traffic courts. The bill took effect upon the Governor's signature on June 10, 2025.
Makes students in workforce-ready certificate programs at the Community College of Rhode Island eligible to receive the Rhode Island Promise Scholarship.
Allows an individual school district that can utilize its own buses or vendors at a lower cost than the statewide system, to obtain reimbursement for these costs from state funds.
Maddy summarySB 845 creates a voluntary tax deduction option on Rhode Island state income tax returns, allowing taxpayers to direct a portion of their refund to the Rhode Island Meals on Wheels Inc. Fund starting with tax year 2025. Taxpayers can choose to contribute by checking a box on their return, with contributions collected annually and deposited into the fund. The fund, managed by the state treasurer, will provide financial support exclusively for eligible individuals and families served by Meals on Wheels programs. This change does not alter tax rates or require contributions - it simply offers a new, optional way for residents to support meal delivery services for vulnerable community members.
