Sen. Gordon Rogers

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution designates April 2026 as the "Month of the Military Child" in Rhode Island to honor children of service members. The measure highlights the sacrifices these families make and encourages the public to show support during this time. It directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to the American Legion Post 85 Women's Auxiliary.

Maddy summarySB 2490 allows Rhode Island residents applying for or renewing hunting or fishing licenses to be automatically registered to vote, with the option to decline. The Department of Environmental Management will offer voter registration forms simultaneously with license applications, ensuring the same assistance level as for licenses, and protects privacy by keeping declined registrations confidential. Completed forms must be sent electronically to the state voter system within one business day, and applicants must be U.S. citizens to register. This process mirrors existing automatic voter registration at the Division of Motor Vehicles.

Requires electric and gas utilities to provide a detailed breakdown of supply, delivery, and public policy costs on electric and gas bills, including specific costs for renewable energy sources, and mandate public comment and PUC approval.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows judges to issue search warrants electronically for specific driving under the influence offenses, including those resulting in death or serious bodily injury. It permits law enforcement officers to submit complaints and affidavits via electronic means, with judicial officers required to sign and transmit the warrant documents electronically. The law maintains that electronic warrants can only be issued for the listed DUI-related crimes and must still follow standard procedures for oath administration and documentation. Additionally, the bill requires that all warrants, whether executed or not, be returned to the district court within 14 days of issuance.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits individuals from asking for money or other donations while standing or sitting in a crosswalk, intersection, or safety zone. The law applies to all people within the state but excludes toll collectors on municipal or state roads. Violations could result in fines ranging from $250 to $500, community service hours, or up to one year in prison for repeat offenses, with judges also having the option to order counseling. The legislation aims to keep pedestrian areas clear and safe by preventing solicitation activities in these specific locations.

Requires that in the town of Coventry, local regulations shall require approval of the permitting authority for both private and public improvements prior to final plan approval.

Requires law enforcement agencies to obtain search warrants for electronic information, data, location information and other identifying information of subscribers and customers, except in specified circumstances.

Restores the requirement that a local review board issue findings for denial in reviewing a comprehensive permit request and clarifies that affordable housing units shall be included in each town and city when the building permits for units are granted.

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.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution welcomes the Narragansett Council of Scouting America to the Rhode Island State House and celebrates Scouting Month in February. The bill recognizes the council's youth development programs, community service efforts, and educational opportunities provided to thousands of Rhode Island youth and their families. It formally thanks Scouts and volunteer leaders for their contributions to leadership training, food drives, and outdoor education programs throughout the state. The resolution authorizes the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to the council's executive director.