Requires any remaining funds in the enacted budget from the Rhode Island Promise Scholarship program or the Rhode Island Hope Scholarship program to be reimbursed to the onward we learn for any scholarships paid on behalf of Rhode Island College students.
Sen. Lou DiPalma
Sponsored bills
Makes students in workforce-ready certificate programs at the Community College of Rhode Island eligible to receive the Rhode Island Promise Scholarship.
Creates a 5 member commission to recommend legislative proposals for blockchain and cryptocurrency, and submit an interim progress report by January 5, 2026, and a final report by January 5, 2027, and would expire on February 5, 2027.
Raises the minimum fee per barrel of petroleum products or crude oil from five cents ($0.05) to ten cents ($0.10) per barrel as part of the uniform oil spill response and prevention fee.
Maddy summarySB 845 creates a voluntary tax deduction option on Rhode Island state income tax returns, allowing taxpayers to direct a portion of their refund to the Rhode Island Meals on Wheels Inc. Fund starting with tax year 2025. Taxpayers can choose to contribute by checking a box on their return, with contributions collected annually and deposited into the fund. The fund, managed by the state treasurer, will provide financial support exclusively for eligible individuals and families served by Meals on Wheels programs. This change does not alter tax rates or require contributions - it simply offers a new, optional way for residents to support meal delivery services for vulnerable community members.
Amends the Identity Theft Protection Act by eliminating current definitions and establishing new definitions. This act also raises the penalty provisions for violations.
Implements a thirty (30) day waiting period following the issuance of a learners permit and the waiting period must expire before the person is permitted to take the road test in order to obtain a full license.
Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 1136) formally recognizes June 2025 as "Portuguese American Heritage Month" in Rhode Island. It acknowledges the historical and ongoing contributions of Portuguese Americans to the state's cultural, economic, and social fabric, particularly highlighting communities in cities like Providence, Pawtucket, and Newport. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to share certified copies with the Governor, Portuguese officials, and the Rhode Island Day of Portugal nonprofit organization. As a ceremonial resolution, it does not create new laws or policies but serves to honor the community's legacy.
Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 1138) expresses the Rhode Island Senate's condolences upon the passing of Yolanda Caceres de Leonardo, a dedicated nursing assistant and community member from the Dominican Republic. It honors her life, including her 20+ years of childcare work, her family (notably her step-daughter, State Senator Ana B. Leonardo Quezada), and her community involvement. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to Senator Leonardo. As a ceremonial resolution, it has no policy impact or direct effect on any laws or constituents.
Maddy summaryThis resolution designates June 2025 as "Pride Month" in Rhode Island to honor LGBTQIA+ communities and their history of advocacy. It is a symbolic gesture with no new policies or legal requirements; the resolution itself does not change laws or affect any individuals. The Senate directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies to state officials, the governor, congressional representatives, and LGBTQIA+ organizations. It commemorates ongoing efforts toward equality but does not create new rights or obligations.