Sen. Walter Felag

Maddy summaryThis bill updates the rules for drivers who crash into deer and suffer significant vehicle damage. It requires these drivers to report the accident to a conservation officer within 24 hours. If the officer confirms the damage, the driver gets a certificate allowing them to keep and eat the deer, provided it is shared only with their immediate family. The law also gives drivers the first right to claim the animal and directs the Department of Environmental Management to create specific rules for handling these carcasses.

Repeals the authority of the health insurance commissioner to enforce any act of Congress/decision of federal court invalidating or repealing the prohibition of annual lifetime limits on health insurance in this state.

Directs the governor to order the lowering of flags to half-mast on any state buildings to honor the passing of first responders annually on October 28.

Exempts used vehicles sold "for parts only" or purchased at end of their lease term by the current lessee that have a valid certificate of inspection affixed to the windshield, from the requirement that dealers of used vehicles conduct a new inspection.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows the surviving spouse of a deceased Rhode Island National Guard member to transfer their late spouse's special "National Guard" license plates for their own use. The plates can be retained by the spouse for life or until they remarry, provided the vehicle meets standard weight requirements and the member served honorably. To obtain the plates, the administrator of motor vehicles will charge a $20 service fee and a $5 transfer fee, with all money going to the state's general revenue. The legislation also defines who qualifies as an active or retired National Guard member and maintains existing rules allowing these vehicles to bypass certain driving bans during emergencies.

Extends the current provisions relative to certain rights of innkeepers and eliminates the sunsetting of such sections thereby preserving the law as it currently exists.

Requires employers in the state with more than 50 employees to display a poster containing basic information on veterans' benefits and services be created and distributed by the DLT in consultation with the office of veterans services.

Adds the town of Warren to those towns and cities authorized to issue bonds to finance the uninsured portion of a settlement arising out of litigation against the town or city.

Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles to issue special license plates for vehicles registered to the Commercial Fisheries Research Foundation. The plates will feature the foundation's name, require a $40 issuance fee and a $10 annual renewal surcharge, and mandate that funds raised be used for sustainable fisheries research and education projects in Rhode Island. To qualify, the foundation must meet minimum order requirements for the plates and submit an annual accounting report before distributing any raised funds to local charitable organizations. The legislation also specifies that the foundation must use any Rhode Island-sourced funds for the benefit of Rhode Island-based charitable entities.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution honors Senator Frank S. Lombardi for his twelve years of public service in the Rhode Island Senate as he retires. The bill formally acknowledges his legislative work, which included advancing protections for children and workers, promoting government transparency, and supporting families and small businesses. It also recognizes his extensive background as a lawyer, soccer official, and community leader. Finally, the resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the document to Senator Lombardi.