Sen. Lou DiPalma

Maddy summarySB 2694 prevents state fees for home modifications required to accommodate a veteran's disability, directly benefiting disabled veterans needing accessibility changes. The bill amends the state building code to prohibit local governments or agencies from charging fees for these specific modifications, such as installing ramps or grab bars. It applies to modifications mandated by a veteran's disability, ensuring no additional costs for essential accessibility improvements. The bill was introduced in February 2026 and referred to the Senate Housing and Municipal Government committee, with no further action taken yet.

Maddy summaryThis bill appropriates $500,000 from the state treasury to Onward We Learn for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. The funds are designated to support the Rhode Island GEAR UP program, which helps middle and high school students prepare for college and provides scholarships to cover postsecondary education costs. This money serves as the state's required matching contribution to a larger federal grant received by the Office of the Postsecondary Commissioner. The resolution authorizes the state controller to issue payment orders to Onward We Learn once proper financial documentation is submitted.

Allows an individual school district that can utilize its own buses or vendors at a lower cost than the statewide system, to obtain reimbursement for these costs from state funds.

Amends State funding calculations for special education, revising extraordinary cost calculations for FY 2028-2029, and providing additional funds for excess costs when special education students move into a district after the budget is approved.

Establishes a statewide “Healthy School Meals for all” universal school breakfast and lunch program in Rhode Island public schools phased in over 3 years.

Requires any remaining funds in the enacted budget from the RI promise scholarship program or the RI hope scholarship program, after Rhode Island college has satisfied all eligible scholarships to be reimbursed to onward we learn.

Provides that a student's enrollment in Medicaid would be included in calculating and determining the student success factor for use in the foundation education-aid formula.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution designates May 2026 as "National Speech-Language-Hearing Month" throughout Rhode Island to raise awareness about communication disorders affecting millions of Americans. The bill encourages state agencies, including the Departments of Human Services and Elementary and Secondary Education, to organize events and screenings that highlight the importance of hearing and speech health. It also directs the Secretary of State to send copies of the resolution to relevant department heads and the Rhode Island Speech-Language-Hearing Association to facilitate participation in the campaign.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution congratulates RIPIN, a Rhode Island nonprofit, on its 35th anniversary and recognizes its 35 years of supporting families with children who have special needs. The bill highlights how RIPIN provides peer-to-peer guidance, advocacy, and resources to help individuals navigate healthcare, special education, and aging services. By acknowledging RIPIN's role as a federally designated center, the resolution formally commends the organization's leadership and staff for their ongoing contributions to the state's safety net. Ultimately, this legislative action serves as a formal expression of appreciation rather than enacting new laws or policies.

Provides that retirees in the state pension system receive cost of living adjustments compounded into the retiree’s total retirement benefits each year beginning January 1, 2026. This act would be prospective only.