Sen. Jake Bissaillon

Prohibits employers from seeking/using credit reports in making hiring decisions concerning prospective employees, asking questions about the applicant's financial past during interviews or including credit history questions in their job applications.

Creates the division of civil representation within the department of housing and require civil representation by a Designated Legal Organization to provide legal representation to all tenants who qualify in eviction proceedings.

Modifies the real estate sales disclosure form to include the disclosure of “blower door diagnostic air leakage testing” and advises that air leakage testing is recommended prior to purchasing a residential unit.

Includes municipal detention facility corporations as exempt from taxation, and requires that an amount equal to 27% of all tax that would have been collected if the property was taxable be paid to the municipality annually.

Authorizes the appropriation of the sum of $15,200,000 to cities and towns to purchase firefighter and rescue personnel protective gear which is PFAS free.

Maddy summarySB 939 establishes the "Extended Producer Responsibility for Packaging and Paper Act" to improve the recycling of packaging and paper products statewide. This bill mandates that producers of these materials fund and enhance municipal recycling programs for consumers at single-family and multi-family residences. Producers will be responsible for costs associated with "covered services," including the collection, transportation, sorting, processing, and public education of recyclable materials. The goal is to reduce waste, establish a circular economy, and improve the overall effectiveness and funding of recycling initiatives.

Maddy summarySB 855 establishes new rules for overtime work for state-employed peace officers, primarily affecting correctional officers in Rhode Island. The bill prevents the state from requiring these employees to work beyond an agreed-upon 8-hour (or 10-hour for correctional officer stewards) shift, except in unforeseeable emergent circumstances like a riot. Even in emergencies, overtime can only be required as a last resort after the employer has exhausted reasonable efforts to obtain staffing. If the state violates these provisions and requires work beyond the limit, it must pay the employee double time and a half their regular salary.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 891 requires the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) and the Division of Public Utilities and Carriers (DPUC) to conduct a comprehensive study aimed at finding the best ways to lower energy rates for consumers in Rhode Island. Due by April 30, 2026, the study will investigate energy rates in other states and review current Rhode Island energy programs that contribute to costs. It also calls for recommendations to implement "energy notes" on future legislation to transparently show their impact on energy costs. An appropriation of $100,000 is provided to hire consultants and experts for this study.

Requires transition planning for high school students with disabilities, who have a “504” plan, like the transition planning required for high school students with disabilities, who have an individualized education program (IEP).

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 995 expresses the deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences of the Rhode Island Senate on the passing of the Honorable Dominick J. Ruggerio, the former President and Dean of the Rhode Island Senate. It directs the Secretary of State to transmit certified copies of the resolution to his family.