Requires the department of transportation, in consultation with the department of environmental management also to conduct an environmental impact study of motor vehicle non-exhaust particle emissions.
Requires the executive climate change coordinating council to evaluate and make recommendations for the use of carbon emissions removal technology as an alternative to reducing carbon emissions and meeting climate goals.
Requires healthcare facilities that perform abortions meet the license requirements of similar healthcare facilities and allows the department of health to conduct unannounced inspections.
Maddy summarySB 2219 requires the state's climate council to study whether climate policies shift environmental impacts of carbon-free energy technologies (like solar panels and EV batteries) onto developing countries, including labor conditions, mining effects, and supply chain transparency. It mandates that solar permit applicants set aside funds for panel recycling at end-of-life and requires wind turbine blades to be disposed of or recycled within the state unless approved for off-site recycling. The bill also creates a renewable energy credit program allowing utilities to use tradable credits for clean energy goals, but prohibits credits for energy made with slave/child labor or certain hazardous materials. These provisions directly affect state agencies, energy developers, and manufacturers of carbon-free technology products.
Requires as part of the solar permit application an assessment on carbon-neutral, a solar permit would only be approved if it was carbon neutral based on the assessment.
Maddy summarySB 2080 repeals the entire 2021 Act on Climate, which established Rhode Island's statewide greenhouse gas emission reduction targets and created a Climate Change Council. This repeal directly affects state agencies, the Climate Change Council, and any entities previously required to comply with the law's requirements. The bill removes all specific emission targets (like 45% below 1990 levels by 2030) and the council's duties, including developing climate plans, addressing environmental justice, and tracking progress. It does not create new requirements but eliminates the existing legal framework for climate action. The repeal takes effect immediately upon enactment.
Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (SR 2072), not a policy bill. It formally expresses the Rhode Island Senate's condolences upon the passing of Thomas E. Hodge, a longtime Pawtucket resident and public servant. The resolution honors his 29 years on the Pawtucket City Council, his service as a state representative, and his community roles. The Senate directed the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to his family. No new laws or policies are created by this resolution.
Maddy summaryThis is a commemorative resolution (not a law) designating January 2026 as "Rhode Island Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month." It formally recognizes the issue through a symbolic observance, directing the Secretary of State to send certified copies to the President, Rhode Island Governor, and UN Secretary-General. The resolution does not create new laws, allocate funds, or directly affect any individuals or organizations. It serves solely as a symbolic gesture to raise awareness about human trafficking.
Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial Senate resolution (SR 2008) expressing condolences to the family of Ashbel Tingley Wall II, former Director of the Rhode Island Department of Corrections, following his passing. It honors his 30+ year career in corrections, including his leadership as the state's longest-serving Corrections Director and his initiatives like medication-assisted treatment programs and inmate service dog training. The resolution was unanimously passed by the Rhode Island Senate on January 8, 2026, and directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to his family.
Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial Senate resolution (SR 2003), not a policy bill. It expresses the Rhode Island Senate's condolences to the family of Mary D. Burke following her passing. The resolution formally extends sympathy to her spouse (deceased), children (including Senator John Burke and others), grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. It does not create any new laws or affect any policies.
