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.
Sen. Todd Patalano
Sponsored bills
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.
Maddy summarySB 2712 authorizes state police to enforce local city or town rules (municipal ordinances) that only impose civil penalties, such as fines. This directly affects municipalities, which can now have state police handle enforcement of their civil-level rules, and state police, who gain this new enforcement authority. The key provision limits this authority to ordinances without criminal penalties - meaning no jail time or criminal charges would be involved. The bill does not change existing criminal enforcement powers or create new penalties. (Bill number: SB 2712; Introduced: 2026-02-27)
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.
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.