Allows a minor between the ages of 14 - 17 without a permanent residence/in custody of the DCYF to get state identification card without a signature from parent, guardian or foster parent as well as a certified copy of minor's birth certificate at no cost
Maddy summarySB 728 requires family courts to establish court-ordered visitation rights between siblings separated through adoption, foster care placement, or guardianship. It directly affects children who are placed in adoptive, foster, or guardianship situations and separated from their siblings. The law mandates courts to grant these visitation rights if they determine it serves the children’s best interests, there is a significant emotional bond between siblings, and all parties (including birth parents and guardians) negotiate in good faith. The court must consider the child’s input if they are 12 or older, and agencies like child protective services must recommend visitation unless safety risks exist. This replaces ad-hoc arrangements with a standardized court process for maintaining sibling connections.
Adds probation officers and parole officers to the definition of "police officer" for purposes of salary payments during line of duty illness or injury.
Maddy summarySB 310 amends the state's minimum wage law to set annual increases for covered workers. It establishes a minimum wage of $16 per hour starting January 1, 2026, rising to $17 in 2027, $18 in 2028, $19 in 2029, and $20 in 2030. The bill directly affects all employers subject to the state's minimum wage requirements, including businesses in retail, hospitality, and other sectors employing hourly workers. This amendment updates the existing wage schedule without altering current enforcement mechanisms or exemptions.
Establishes a task force managed by the children’s cabinet to develop recommendations to improve access to early intervention and early childhood special education services.
Prohibits the distribution, transfer, or possession of any material that depicts a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct and is obscene and lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value.
Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (SR 367), not a law with policy changes. It formally celebrates the 90th birthday of Robert Edward Kenahan on February 8, 2025, recognizing his career service as a Rhode Island State Police officer (20 years), U.S. Navy veteran (Korean Conflict), and security professional. The Senate passed the resolution on February 25, 2025, directing the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to Mr. Kenahan. It has no effect on laws, regulations, or any individual's rights or obligations.
Maddy summarySB 153 establishes rules to protect minors under 18 who appear in compensated vlogs on social media. It requires vloggers featuring minors (meeting criteria like 30% screen time in content or $0.10/view compensation) to track detailed records and deposit 10-50% of earnings into a trust fund for the minor. The trust funds, held until the minor turns 18, must be managed by specific financial institutions and are enforceable through civil lawsuits by parents or guardians. This bill directly affects vloggers, families, and platforms hosting content featuring minors in Rhode Island.
Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial Senate resolution (SR 77), not a substantive bill. It formally congratulates Joseph B. Goho, Superintendent of the North Providence Public Schools Department, for being named "2025 Rhode Island Superintendent of the Year" by the Rhode Island Superintendents Association. The resolution expresses the Senate's recognition of his leadership, including securing $200 million in school construction bonds and improving student achievement. It directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to Mr. Goho. This resolution has no policy impact or funding provisions - it is purely a symbolic gesture of appreciation.
Maddy summarySenate Resolution 5 is a ceremonial resolution extending condolences to the family of Walter J. Gray, a former Rhode Island State Senator and community leader, following his passing. It formally recognizes his 70-year marriage, journalism career, public service (including roles as press secretary, URI administrator, and South Kingstown Town Council member), and community contributions. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to his widow, Mary Gray, and family. This is a non-binding tribute with no policy changes or direct impact on laws or constituents.
