Sen. Gordon Rogers

Maddy summarySB 2321 creates an equivalent training certification program at municipal police academies, allowing candidates with prior law enforcement experience to bypass standard academy training. It directly affects sworn police officers who have worked full-time for at least one year in law enforcement, received training comparable to state standards, and have no more than an eight-year gap since their last sworn position. The bill establishes specific eligibility requirements for certification, including documented experience and training alignment with existing standards. This program provides an alternative pathway for qualified candidates to become certified without completing the full municipal academy curriculum.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates May 2026 as "Jewish American Heritage Month" throughout Rhode Island to honor the community's historical and ongoing contributions to the state. The bill highlights Jewish Americans' roles in Rhode Island's economy, culture, education, military service, and healthcare while promoting unity and combating prejudice. It directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to relevant community leaders and organizations to facilitate observance. This measure is symbolic and does not alter laws or create new government programs.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution expresses condolences for the passing of Mary Ann "Mare" Johnson, a lifelong resident of Rhode Island who died on April 5, 2026. The measure formally acknowledges her life and directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to her family. It does not create new laws or policy changes but serves as a ceremonial gesture of sympathy from the state legislature.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution formally acknowledges the essential contributions of independent community pharmacies to Rhode Island's healthcare system and local economies. It highlights how these locally owned businesses provide personalized care, support neighborhood jobs, and offer reliable access to medications for residents, particularly seniors and those with chronic conditions. The document expresses appreciation for pharmacists and their staff while directing the Secretary of State to send copies of the resolution to the Rhode Island Pharmacists Association and independent pharmacies. As a symbolic measure, the bill does not alter any laws or funding but serves to honor the role these pharmacies play in the state.

Provides measures to prevent title fraud by authorizing the recorder of deeds to require the production of a government-issued photographic identification card before recording a deed or certain other instruments.

Directs the general assembly to fund ten full time equivalent positions in FY 2027 to support DEM's efforts in the areas of forestry and forestry projects.

Maddy summarySB 2516 repeals the energy efficiency charge previously included in utility base rates for electricity and water providers. This bill removes a specific fee that utilities had been allowed to add to customer bills to fund energy efficiency programs. The repeal does not affect existing funding for renewable energy programs (which continue at 0.3 mills per kilowatt-hour until 2028) or demand-side management programs for electricity and gas utilities. The bill directly affects regulated utilities distributing electricity, water, or gas, as it eliminates one cost they could pass to customers.

Establishes the Property Equity Protection Act to protect property owners from losing their equity when their property is seized to pay a debt to the government by allowing ample time to pay off the debt and adequate notice of due process.

Requires the PUC to produce yearly reports beginning on January 1, 2027 on the ability of the current electric grid to handle electrification loads needed to power cars, buildings, and heating of homes within the state.

Requires the PUC to make public notification of any changes in eligibility or production of energy, and would direct the commission to promulgate rules and regulations to allow and facilitate the prompt public disclosure of this information.