Changes the residential limit for any substantial multi-family housing project not to exceed forty thousand (40,000) residents according to the United States Census Bureau.
Sen. Thomas Paolino
Sponsored bills
Mandates arming campus police at public higher educational institutions and would include campus police in the definition of "law enforcement officer" for the purposes of the "law enforcement officers' bill of rights".
Requires any entity that knowingly collects, shares or sells to third parties the personal data of a consumer to register with the department of business regulations and permits for the consumer to request deletion of the personal data.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution honors the courage and compassion of eleven individuals who provided aid and protection during a shooting at Lynch Arena in Pawtucket on February 16, 2026. The bill specifically recognizes these Good Samaritans for their actions in disarming the shooter, rendering medical assistance, protecting victims, and offering comfort during the crisis. It directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to each named individual as a formal expression of gratitude from the Rhode Island Senate.
Requires the director of the Rhode Island emergency management agency and the Rhode Island commerce commission to develop and implement a plan to assist businesses in obtaining flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance program.
Maddy summaryThis bill would allow restaurants and other food service establishments in Rhode Island to accept reusable containers brought by customers for filling or refilling with takeout food and drinks. The legislation defines consumer-provided containers as durable, cleanable receptacles that are structurally sound and free from contamination, and it requires the Department of Health to update food safety rules by July 2027 to permit this practice. The bill also mandates that the department create and publish guidance materials for businesses on inspecting containers, preventing cross-contamination, and following safe operational procedures. Importantly, the law does not require establishments to accept or fill customer-provided containers, leaving that decision to individual businesses.
Maddy summarySB 2428 prohibits retailers in Rhode Island from using dynamic or surveillance pricing practices - where prices change based on consumer data or behavior - to sell goods or services to individual consumers. It directly affects retailers (including online sellers) operating within the state, requiring them to set fixed prices rather than algorithmically adjusted ones. The bill defines "price" broadly to include all costs and fees, and aligns with existing deceptive trade practices laws by banning tactics that mislead consumers about pricing. This law takes effect on January 1, 2026, and expires on March 31, 2026, pending further legislative action.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution commemorates the Feast of Saint Joseph, honoring the patron saint of workers and family. It recognizes Saint Joseph's role as a symbol of faith, hard work, and family solidarity, particularly within the Italian-American community in Rhode Island. The resolution authorizes the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to the Italian American Historical Society of Rhode Island. This is a ceremonial document that acknowledges cultural heritage and does not create new laws or policies.
Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a new chapter in Rhode Island law requiring law enforcement, courts, and correctional facilities to identify and verify the veteran status of individuals involved in the criminal justice system. It mandates that agencies use federal databases to confirm veteran status within 24 hours of law enforcement contact, 21 days for parolees, and 7 days for inmates, then share this information with judges, prosecutors, and defense attorneys. Verified veterans gain access to veterans justice outreach specialists who assist with connecting to VA healthcare, federal benefits, specialty courts, and diversion programs. The bill also requires weekly reporting of verified veterans to relevant state agencies and courts to ensure coordinated support services.
Requires courts to presume release for most probation violations, set reasonable bail or non-monetary conditions, limit detention to cases of risk or danger, require prompt hearings, and mandate written reasons for detention.