Sen. Todd Patalano

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates June 2026 as "Pride Month" in Rhode Island to honor the history and contributions of the LGBTQIA+ community. The measure does not alter any laws or create new legal requirements but serves as a symbolic gesture of appreciation and support. By recognizing this time of year, the Senate aims to celebrate the culture and achievements of LGBTQIA+ Rhode Islanders while reaffirming the state's commitment to equity. The resolution authorizes the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to Rhode Island Pride to mark the occasion.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution expresses the state's deepest condolences for the passing of Joseph Falvo, a longtime public servant from Johnston. The document honors his life by detailing his extensive career in local government, including his service on the Johnston Town Council and as Sealer of Weights and Measures, as well as his military service and private sector work. It also acknowledges his personal life, noting his faith, family, and hobbies, before directing the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to his children.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates June 4, 2026, as "Cox Impact Day" in Rhode Island to recognize Cox Communications for its charitable contributions. The bill highlights the company's history of funding STEM programs and community initiatives through Cox Charities, which has distributed over $11 million in grants to local organizations. It specifically acknowledges the 2026 recipients of these grants, including groups focused on youth education, mentorship, and environmental sustainability. The resolution serves as a formal expression of appreciation from the state legislature and does not alter any laws or policies.

Funds the state crime victim compensation program through an additional one dollar ($1.00) fine on traffic violations, exclusive of violations related to the parking of vehicles.

Provides that when two or more individuals associate to accomplish the crime of shoplifting, that they would be deemed to be associated for the particular purpose of shoplifting and be guilty of a felony.

Increases penalties for a second or subsequent offense with a fine of not less than $250 or no more than $1,000 and up to 11 months imprisonment for violating the law on the care of dogs.

Requires all schools and educational institutions to develop and implement a school safety plan that would provide for immediate access to school facilities by first responders in an emergency.

Maddy summarySB 2746 directs the Division of Motor Vehicles to create a special license plate for individuals working in the manufacturing industry. This bill does not change vehicle registration laws but adds a new plate option specifically for manufacturing workers. The key mechanism is the administrative creation of this plate type by the Division of Motor Vehicles. It directly affects manufacturing industry employees who choose to display this specialized plate on their vehicles.

Establishes a procedure for a health insurer to reimburse a healthcare provider no less than sixty-five percent (65%) of each unpaid co-payment, co-insurance or deductible amount due, after reasonable collection efforts.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows employees who are not currently represented by a union to form a group for collective bargaining with their employers. To establish such a group, workers must demonstrate majority support by submitting signed cards from at least 30% of employees to request an election, or by obtaining cards from more than 50% of employees to bypass the election process entirely. The legislation also prohibits state management personnel from encouraging or discouraging employees from exercising their rights and requires employers to provide specific employee information to the exclusive bargaining representative. Additionally, the bill mandates that employers notify the bargaining unit representative within five business days of hiring new employees and provides for union orientation sessions for new hires.