Prohibits noncompete agreements except for noncompete agreements between a seller and buyer of a business; creates civil action for an employer for the violation of an agreement by employee regarding disclosure or wrongful utilization of trade secrets.
Maddy summarySB 2322 amends state property tax laws to allow holders of a life estate to claim veteran's tax exemptions on the real property they own. This change directly affects individuals who possess a life estate in a property, enabling them to use the same tax breaks previously reserved for veterans and their unmarried widows or widowers. The bill does not create new exemptions but rather clarifies that life estate holders are eligible for the existing exemptions, which vary by municipality and can range from $1,000 to over $40,000 depending on the town. By making this adjustment, the legislation ensures that life estate owners in specific towns can reduce their property tax bills just like other qualifying veterans.
Provides amendments to the Rhode Island Works Program regarding eligibility and cash assistance, and repeals the termination of benefits to a family because of failure of a family member to enter into or comply with an individual employment plan.
Maddy summaryThis bill establishes the Kratom Consumer Protection Act to regulate the sale and distribution of kratom products in Rhode Island. It requires processors and retailers to register their products annually with the Attorney General's office and submit independent laboratory test results to ensure safety and label accuracy. The legislation prohibits the sale of contaminated products, those containing synthetic alkaloids, and any items marketed in ways that appeal to individuals under the age of 21. Additionally, the act mandates clear labeling regarding potential health risks and usage instructions while setting fines for negligent violations.
Maddy summaryThis bill establishes the Transparency in Arts Education Access and Proficiency Act to increase visibility of arts programs in Rhode Island public middle and high schools. Starting in the 2025-26 school year, schools must report annually on the percentage of students enrolled in arts courses and the number of available classes in dance, media arts, music, theater, and visual arts. Additionally, the state may appoint arts education curriculum coordinators to assist schools with these reporting requirements, and high schools must begin submitting student portfolios demonstrating proficiency in an art form by the 2026-27 school year.
Directs PUC to extend utility termination moratorium for gas/electricity from April 15 to May 1, of each year with discretion to respond to emergency/ economic conditions/customers needs.
Allows law enforcement to utilize mufflers, silencers, or other devices for deadening or muffling the sound of a firearm while acting within the scope of their official duties under the supervision of the police chief or colonel of the state police.
Amends the state's apprenticeship laws to make them more consistent with applicable federal regulations and makes said laws more comprehendible and consistent with each other.
Maddy summaryThis bill updates Rhode Island's inclusionary zoning law to require that developments with ten or more units include at least 15% affordable housing, which must remain affordable for 30 years. It allows municipalities to offer density bonuses, such as adding two market-rate units for every affordable unit, or to accept alternative methods like off-site construction, land donations, or fee payments instead of on-site affordable units. However, projects that choose to pay fees rather than build affordable housing directly are not eligible for these density bonuses. The law also sets a minimum fee amount for fee-in-lieu options and mandates that collected funds be used exclusively to create new affordable housing within the community.
Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a Social Work Licensure Compact that allows licensed social workers to practice across multiple member states with a single license. It creates a commission to manage the system, which includes sharing information about licenses and disciplinary actions between states. The law aims to improve public access to services, reduce the need for multiple licenses, and support military families by enabling easier interstate practice. Additionally, the compact permits the use of telehealth to expand service availability while maintaining each state's authority to protect public safety.
