Sen. Lou DiPalma

Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes several Rhode Island municipalities to offer property tax credits or exemptions for residents aged 65 and older. It allows local town councils to establish specific rules and dollar limits for these benefits, which can range from a flat reduction to a percentage of the property's value. The changes apply to real estate owned and occupied by eligible seniors and are designed to be applied uniformly without considering the applicant's ability to pay. By amending state tax laws, the legislation gives local governments the flexibility to create their own programs while ensuring all qualifying residents receive the same treatment.

Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes the state to use existing funds to pay specific claims for vehicle damage caused by roadway debris or defects. It allocates a total of $5,151.86 to compensate six individuals who were injured in separate incidents on state roads between 2024 and 2026. The legislation directs the State Controller to draw these payments from the General Treasurer, making the funds available without requiring new budgetary approval. Once passed by the legislature, the resolution becomes effective immediately without needing the governor's signature.

Exempts certain vehicles that are not manufactured with the proper front plate registration bracket from the requirement that motor vehicles display a front facing registration plate.

Amends the terms of the pension plan set forth in the respective collective bargaining agreements in effect on July 1, 2026, between Central Falls and the labor organizations representing members of the Central Falls plan.

Provides that motor vehicle rental companies be entitled to establish non-liability for toll violations, administrative fees, registration penalties, and fines by providing a rental or lease agreement as prima facie evidence against a lessee.

Allows for sending of the notice under power of sale and rights of active military servicemembers by USPS First Class Mail and/or an overnight delivery service, instead of by USPS certified mail return receipt requested.

Maddy summarySB 2475 modifies how owners of properties with private access easements share the costs of maintaining those paths. The bill requires that, unless a specific written agreement says otherwise, all benefited property owners split maintenance expenses based on the benefit each property receives, rather than using the property's market value or tax assessment to calculate that share. It also clarifies that any owner who directly damages an easement must pay for the repairs alone and allows other owners to take legal action if someone refuses to pay their fair share or fix damage. This change affects residential property owners who rely on shared driveways or paths and aims to create a clearer, more equitable system for dividing upkeep responsibilities.

Maddy summarySB 2576 allows the town of Tiverton to apply different tax rates to five defined property classes, directly affecting local homeowners, businesses, and property owners. The bill creates categories including residential properties (with optional homestead exemptions), commercial/industrial real estate, personal property, and mobile homes, requiring uniform rates within each class. This change gives Tiverton flexibility to adjust tax burdens across property types while maintaining consistent application within each category.

Provides that the tax administration may prescribe regulations requiring returns of information to be made/filed on or before 2/28 each year with filing thresholds consistent with applicable thresholds for info filings pursuant to 26 U.S.C. § 1 et seq.

Repeals the Tiverton tax credit for totally disabled veterans and includes a veteran's unmarried widow or widower for a tax credit in the amount of four hundred dollars ($400) or greater.