Sen. Bob Britto

Maddy summarySB 2248 creates a new income-based discount program for low-income households to make home energy costs affordable. It requires large electric and gas utilities (over 100,000 customers) to design a tiered discount plan by 2027, capping energy costs at 3-6% of household income depending on whether electric or gas is the primary heat source. Eligible households (at or below 150% of the federal poverty level) would receive fixed monthly discounts, with past bill arrears forgiven over 24 months. The program’s costs, including administration, would be covered through rate increases for other utility customers, as determined by the Public Utilities Commission.

Makes changes to the access to public records act, including clarifying various provisions, increasing the sanctions for knowing and willful violations of the law, and making certain traffic accident data and preferred license plate information public.

Requires applications for energy facilities to take into consideration the 2021 Act on Climate and how the facility may advance or delay the greenhouse gas emissions reductions.

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.

Mandates public schools (K-12) have one full-time certified social worker for every 250 students and allocates $2 million in the Fiscal Year 2025 budget for school districts and municipalities to hire additional social workers.

Provides that a school district could elect and choose to not spend money on any mandate that is not fully funded through the state education aid formula.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution honors the Rhode Island Medical Society for organizing the 2026 State House Advocacy Day event. It formally recognizes the physicians who participated in the gathering for their work in patient care and healthcare policy advocacy. The bill directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to the medical society as an official acknowledgment of their contributions.

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.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates May 10 through May 16, 2026, as "National Hospital Week" in Rhode Island to honor the state's hospitals and healthcare workers. The measure acknowledges the vital role these institutions play in providing essential services, supporting the local economy, and employing thousands of residents. It directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to the President of the Hospital Association of Rhode Island, recognizing the group's leadership in the field.

Allows teachers, state and municipal employees to retire upon the earlier of reaching age sixty (60) with thirty (30) years of service or the employee's retirement eligibility date under present state statutes.