Sen. David Tikoian

Maddy summaryThis bill designates March 31, 2026, as "Alzheimer's Association of Rhode Island Advocacy and Awareness Day" to honor the organization's efforts in supporting individuals affected by Alzheimer's disease. The resolution acknowledges the growing impact of the disease on Rhode Island's senior population and highlights the critical services provided by the Alzheimer's Association, such as caregiver support and education. By commemorating this date, the Senate aims to raise public awareness and encourage community support for those navigating the challenges of the disease. The Secretary of State is authorized to send a certified copy of the resolution to the Alzheimer's Association of Rhode Island.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Rhode Island's Law Enforcement Officers' Due Process, Accountability, and Transparency Act to modify how legal fees are handled during disciplinary hearings. It allows the chairperson of a hearing committee to appoint legal counsel for the committee upon written request from both the law enforcement agency and the accused officer, with each party responsible for paying 50% of the legal fees unless they agree otherwise. The legislation also clarifies definitions for key terms and specifies the composition of hearing committees, which must include a retired judge, a practicing attorney, and three law enforcement officers selected from a certified pool. These changes apply to permanently employed police officers, state police officers, and certain other law enforcement employees, excluding department chiefs and highest-ranking officers.

Dictates the length a search warrant involving a tracking device would be valid and provide a process to extend the time frame of the tracking device for good cause.

Adds school superintendents, central office officials, school principals, and all other school employees, to the definition of a “public official” for purposes of the criminal prohibition against making threats to public officials.

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.

Increases and reallocates the fees collected for motor vehicle inspections, including motorcycle inspections, with an allocation of ten dollars ($10.00) to the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA).

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits healthcare companies from unilaterally changing important terms in contracts with healthcare providers while the contracts are still active. It directly affects health plans and healthcare providers by requiring mutual written agreement for any contract changes or allowing changes only when required by state or federal law. The law defines material terms to include reimbursement rates, payment schedules, coverage rules, and quality requirements, ensuring providers have stability during contract periods. Any proposed changes not mandated by law must be given at least 90 days notice before a contract renewal takes effect.

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.