Sen. Andrew Dimitri

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.

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.

Mandates arming campus police at public higher educational institutions and would include campus police in the definition of "law enforcement officer" for the purposes of the "law enforcement officers' bill of rights".

Makes it a felony for any person required to register as a sex offender to live within three hundred feet (300’) of a school as defined in § 11-37.1-2.

Establishes the Super Speeder Accountability Act to be used as a sentencing option or enhancement for drivers charged with certain driving violations.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution commemorates March 25, 2026, as the 205th anniversary of Greek Independence Day and celebrates the shared democratic values between Greece and the United States. The bill acknowledges historical ties, including American support during Greece's war for independence and the ongoing strategic partnership between the two nations. It formally recognizes the Greek-American community's contributions to Rhode Island and directs the Secretary of State to send copies of the resolution to Greek Orthodox churches, the U.S. Congressional delegation, and Greek diplomatic and religious leaders.

Maddy summarySB 2640 would establish a new type of tax-advantaged savings account designed for unexpected major expenses like natural disasters or serious medical emergencies. The bill creates a legal framework for these "catastrophe savings accounts," allowing taxpayers to contribute funds under specific state tax rules. It would directly affect individuals who qualify to open such accounts for emergency expenses. The bill was introduced to the Senate Commerce committee on February 27, 2026, and remains in the early stages of consideration.

Maddy summarySB 2204 clarifies definitions and prohibits deceptive practices specifically in insurance claim handling, directly affecting policyholders, insureds, and businesses making insurance claims. It defines key terms like "claimant," "insurance claim handling services," and "unfair or deceptive acts," explicitly banning tactics such as misrepresenting repairs, hiding rebate terms, or falsely advertising claim resolutions. The bill requires insurers and claim handlers to provide transparent information about claim processes and pricing, such as separately stating labor costs or disclosing repair defects. These changes aim to increase accountability in how insurers process claims, reducing misleading practices that impact consumers during the claims experience.

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.