Prohibits the charging of any fees to a senior citizen who is 65 years of age or older for a hard-copy paper bill, invoice or statement. The violation of this provision would be a deceptive trade practice subject to a $500 fine.
Removes the exemption from taxation granted to Bryant University located in Smithfield, RI subjecting the university to full taxation unless, the university and the town of Smithfield reach an agreement on payment in lieu of taxes on or before 6/30/24.
Maddy summarySB 2677 expands the ability of individuals to have their criminal records expunged by allowing multiple non-violent felony convictions to be cleared ten years after the sentence is completed. The bill also permits the expungement of multiple misdemeanor convictions after five years and includes provisions for deferred sentences and decriminalized offenses. Eligible applicants must demonstrate good moral character, show no new arrests or convictions in the relevant time period, and have paid all associated court fees and fines. Courts retain the discretion to grant or deny these motions based on whether the applicant's rehabilitation aligns with the public interest.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution congratulates Jim Hoyt, the long-time CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Pawtucket, for receiving the 2024 Masters and Mentors Award from the Boys & Girls Club of America. The bill recognizes his nearly five decades of service and leadership, highlighting his dedication to mentoring youth and fostering a supportive environment for thousands of young people. It directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to Mr. Hoyt as a formal acknowledgment of his contributions to the community.
Maddy summaryThis bill amends Rhode Island's existing Law Enforcement Officers' Bill of Rights by renaming it the Law Enforcement Officers' Due Process, Accountability, and Transparency Act. It directly affects permanently employed police officers, state troopers, and other sworn law enforcement employees, excluding department chiefs and top-ranking administrators. The key provisions establish a new five-member hearing committee with a mix of judges, attorneys, and officers to review complaints against officers, while also mandating that legal fees for this committee be split evenly between the agency and the accused officer. Additionally, the law requires that investigations be conducted at reasonable hours, allows officers to have legal counsel present during interrogations, and ensures officers are fully informed of the specific complaints and names of complainants before questioning begins.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution expresses condolences for the death of Jason Alan Golditch, a long-time employee of the Rhode Island General Assembly's Office of Capitol Television. The document honors his thirty-six-year career and personal life, noting his roles as a producer, journalist, and devoted family man. It directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to Golditch's wife, Lynda, and his family.
Maddy summarySB 2687 expands an existing incentive pay program to include all full-time court clerks who meet specific educational requirements. The bill applies to clerks in the supreme, superior, family, and district courts, as well as administrators of the workers' compensation court, allowing them to earn additional compensation for obtaining degrees in court administration or law enforcement. Eligibility is based on having already earned the required degree, having completed half the necessary credits, or being currently enrolled in a degree program as of July 5, 1994. The act also clarifies that incentive payments will not be given to clerks hired after that date or to those who no longer hold a clerk position.
Maddy summarySB 2781 updates the state's Uniform Commercial Code to include modern definitions for emerging digital technologies. The bill amends the law's general provisions to formally define terms such as "electronic," "electronic document of title," and "control," ensuring these concepts apply to business transactions involving digital records. By clarifying how electronic documents function alongside traditional paper instruments, the legislation provides a consistent legal framework for buying, selling, and securing goods in the digital economy. These changes directly affect businesses and individuals engaged in commercial activities that rely on electronic systems for managing titles and contracts.
Permits Dyslexia Advocacy Rhode Island plates to be issued for passenger or commercial vehicles upon the satisfaction of the required criteria relative to the number of plates ordered.
Provides that the fifth day in April in each year be designated as "Rhode Island Gold Star Spouses Day" with appropriate exercises in public places and with flags flown at half-staff over the state house.
