Sen. Walter Felag

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a tax credit program to encourage investments in small Rhode Island businesses with 99 or fewer employees. Under the new Rhode Island Local Investment Tax Credit Act, eligible taxpayers who invest in qualifying local businesses could receive a 50% tax credit, up to a maximum of $3,000 per business and $3,000 total per year. To qualify, the business must be headquartered in Rhode Island, derive at least 80% of its revenue from state operations, and hold at least 80% of its assets within the state. The state would annually appropriate funds from the general fund to offset any revenue loss from the tax credits, and the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation Strategic Fund would manage the certification process for eligible investments.

Maddy summarySB 2372 eliminates the sales tax on taxi services (including limousines and ride-hailing services) and pet care services (like grooming or boarding) in Rhode Island. This change directly affects businesses providing these services, removing their obligation to collect and remit sales tax on those specific offerings. The bill amends tax definitions to explicitly exclude these services from the list of taxable activities under Rhode Island's sales tax code. The policy change takes effect immediately upon the bill's passage.

Maddy summarySB 2364 raises Rhode Island's earned-income tax credit (EITC) percentage from its current rate to 30% for tax years beginning in 2027 and later. This change directly benefits low-to-moderate income workers and families who qualify for the EITC, particularly those with children. The bill amends Section 44-30-2.6 of Rhode Island's tax code to implement this increase, which will reduce the tax burden for eligible filers. The adjustment applies to the credit amount calculated based on federal income tax returns, not to overall tax rates. This policy change is effective starting in 2027.

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 summaryThis Senate resolution designates May 10, 2026, as Lupus Day in Rhode Island to raise awareness about the autoimmune disease that affects millions of people worldwide. The bill aims to highlight the need for better public understanding of lupus symptoms and improved access to specialized medical care for patients. Additionally, the resolution encourages charitable donations to the Lupus Foundation of America and similar organizations dedicated to research and patient support. The Secretary of State will officially send a copy of this proclamation to the foundation to formalize the state's recognition of the cause.

Authorizes and fund the painting of a portrait of the president of the senate and former presidents of the senate to be hung in the senate lounge or thereabouts.

Provides that adjunct faculty members at any state college or university who teach at least 50% of the hours regularly worked by full-time faculty in a semester be eligible for the same medical benefits as other full-time state employees.

Maddy summarySB 2753, the Rhode Island Veterans Home Staffing Support Act of 2026, establishes a state funding program to address staffing needs at Rhode Island Veterans Homes. The bill directly affects these state-operated facilities by providing dedicated financial support to maintain adequate staffing levels. Key provisions require the state to allocate specific funds for hiring and retaining personnel at the veterans homes. This act aims to improve operational stability and care quality at these facilities through targeted state financial assistance.

Exempts individual retirement accounts as a countable resource for public assistance. This act also prohibits the state as a creditor against an ABLE account in the event of death of a beneficiary.

Maddy summarySB 2084 increases the monthly personal needs allowance for nursing facility residents from $75 to $100. This change directly affects residents in state-licensed nursing homes by providing them with an additional $25 per month for personal expenses like toiletries or minor comforts. The bill amends Section 40-8-2(7)(v) of the General Laws to update this allowance amount. It will take effect on July 1, 2026. The policy change is a straightforward adjustment to existing funding without altering eligibility or other program requirements.