Creates the division of civil representation within the department of housing and require civil representation by a Designated Legal Organization to provide legal representation to all tenants who qualify in eviction proceedings.
Maddy summarySB 726 creates a specific legal process for dividing "heirs property," which is real estate inherited by multiple family members as co-owners. When a court considers dividing such property, it must first determine its fair market value, often through an appraisal. The bill then introduces a "buyout" option, allowing co-owners who wish to keep the property to purchase the shares of those who want to sell, based on the determined value. It also updates how notice is given to absent or unknown owners in these cases, including requiring a sign to be posted on the property.
Creates an 11 member commission to analyze the impact and potential economic benefits of bail reforms on Black Rhode Islanders, and would report back by February 5, 2026, and expire on April 5, 2026.
Maddy summarySenate Bill 35 directs the Department of Education and the Office of Energy Resources to develop and adopt regulations for school buildings. By June 30, 2026, these regulations must require all new school construction and renovations to be "zero energy capable" by December 31, 2037, adhering to the latest Northeast Collaborative for High Performance Schools (NE-CHPS) standard. The bill mandates that these regulations allow flexibility for local education agencies to pursue state and federal funding for energy projects without reducing their state housing aid. Additionally, it requires guidance for local agencies to build, own, and operate solar panels.
Maddy summarySB 406, known as the Microplastics Reduction Act, aims to reduce microplastic pollution within the state. Beginning January 1, 2029, it prohibits manufacturers from selling or distributing products that contain intentionally added synthetic polymer microparticles. The bill also requires the Department of Environmental Management, in consultation with the Department of Health, to develop a microplastics testing plan by July 1, 2028, to monitor environmental media. Furthermore, by January 1, 2029, these departments must establish a statewide microplastics strategy plan to assess impacts, identify sources, and recommend policies for reduction.
Maddy summarySR 632 is a Senate resolution requesting state and transportation authorities to study expanding MBTA commuter rail service between Providence and Wickford Junction. It specifically asks the Governor, RIDOT Director, and MBTA General Manager to explore increasing weekday evening service to Wickford and adding weekend service, based on current gaps (weekends currently lack Wickford stops). The resolution does not mandate changes but directs these agencies to report findings by June 2025. This affects MBTA operations, RIDOT coordination, and commuters traveling between Providence and Wickford Junction.
Directs the DHS and the department of education to work collaboratively to sustain and strengthen existing workforce development and compensation programs for educators working in licensed child care and early learning programs statewide.
Amends the constitution to guarantee Rhode Island residents with equal opportunity to receive an education that is adequate, equitable and meaningful and provides judicial enforcement of this provision.
Requires small employers with one to fifty (1-50) employees and large employers with fifty (50) or more employees to pay overtime wages to exempt workers if their salary exceeds varying multipliers of minimum wage for a forty (40) hour workweek.
Created the Rhode Island clean heat standards act to implement a system of tradeable clean heat credits earned from the delivery of clean heat measures that reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
