Sen. Gordon Rogers

Maddy summarySB 565 extends the statute of limitations for prosecuting second-degree sexual assault from the standard three years to ten years. This change directly affects cases involving second-degree sexual assault, allowing prosecutors more time to file charges. The bill amends Section 12-12-17(b) of the General Laws to explicitly include second-degree sexual assault in the list of offenses with a ten-year time limit for prosecution. It does not alter the statute of limitations for other crimes or offenses.

Adds a rebuttable defense if any person shall die or sustain a personal injury while committing robbery of the owner, lessor, or occupant of a motor vehicle and that the owner or occupant of the vehicle acted in self-defense.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 859) expresses the Rhode Island Senate's deepest condolences on the passing of Armand M. LaMontagne, a renowned artist known for creating sculptures of figures like Babe Ruth, Ted Williams, and General Patton. It formally honors his life and career, including his work displayed at institutions like the Baseball Hall of Fame and the New England Sports Museum. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to his wife, Lorraine A. LaMontagne, and her family. As a commemorative resolution, it has no policy impact and serves solely to recognize his contributions.

Authorizes municipalities to make an emergency declaration under limited circumstances to allow for the construction and use of SAVE Units on a temporary basis which have specialized requirements and exemptions from the state fire and building codes.

Requires verification of an applicant's date of birth and either a Rhode Island driver's license number or state identification number on all applications seeking mail ballots and emergency mail ballots.

Maddy summarySB 90 legalizes the sale of raw milk within Rhode Island by amending the Milk Sanitation Code to remove the requirement that all milk must be pasteurized before sale. This directly affects dairy producers who can now sell raw milk directly to consumers, and consumers who gain access to raw milk products. The bill maintains existing safety standards, such as requiring milk to come from healthy animals and be produced under sanitary conditions, but explicitly allows raw milk sales (with an exception for goat milk requiring a physician's written prescription). It does not change other regulations like bacterial testing requirements for milk plants or labeling rules.

Maddy summarySB 598 requires all drivers providing for-hire passenger transportation in Rhode Island - including taxi drivers, bus operators, and ride-sharing (TNC) drivers - to pass a national and state criminal background check before transporting passengers. The check covers serious offenses like murder, sexual assault, violent crimes, DUI causing death, and certain drug or weapon crimes, with disqualifying information reported to the Division of Public Utilities. Drivers must pay for the check, receive a clearance certificate valid for five years, and can appeal denials by demonstrating rehabilitation for past convictions. The bill excludes juvenile records and some minor offenses from consideration, ensuring only relevant criminal history impacts eligibility.

Maddy summarySB 119 authorizes the state Department of Health to create rules that make buprenorphine more accessible for treating opioid use disorder (OUD). The bill directly affects patients with OUD and healthcare providers who prescribe this medication by requiring the department to adopt regulations that remove barriers to buprenorphine use. Key provisions include amending state law to mandate the department develop rules supporting "more liberal utilization" of buprenorphine in treatment. The bill does not change current prescribing requirements but gives the department authority to update regulations to expand access. It takes effect upon passage.

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 ceremonial resolution honors Emily Santerre for being named Miss Ireland in West Warwick’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade. It recognizes her academic achievements, leadership roles (including as Treasurer for National Honor Society), athletic accomplishments (multi-sport captain, school record in pole vault), and dedication to Irish-American heritage. The resolution formally congratulates her and directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to her and her family. It has no legal effect or policy changes - only symbolic recognition.