Sen. Lammis Vargas

Maddy summarySenate Bill 447 (SB 447) proposes to establish a new child tax credit within Rhode Island's personal income tax system. This bill directly affects taxpayers in Rhode Island who have dependents. It would allow these taxpayers to claim a credit of one thousand dollars ($1,000) for each dependent. The legislation aims to amend the state's existing personal income tax laws to incorporate this new credit.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 1066 is a commemorative resolution that officially recognizes "Zambarano Day" on May 13, 2025. This resolution congratulates the staff of the Eleanor Slater Hospital-Zambarano campus for their services and expresses the Rhode Island Senate's appreciation and continuing support for the hospital's long-term acute care efforts.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 1067 proclaims May 2025 as "Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month" in the State of Rhode Island. It encourages all Rhode Islanders to learn about the history and contributions of these communities and to observe the month with appropriate programs and activities.

Establishes requirements which would have to be met by an applicant prior to the issuing of permits for an activity that would have an environmental impact on or would increase the cumulative impacts on an environmental justice area.

Maddy summarySR 1036 is a Senate Resolution that proclaims May 8, 2025, as "Arts Day in Rhode Island." It encourages all Rhode Islanders to reflect on how arts and culture enrich their lives and recognizes their critical role in communities. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to transmit copies to the Rhode Island State Council on the Arts and the Rhode Island Coalition for the Arts.

Affords an option for police and firefighters to receive retirement allowances, without reduction, who seek retirement after twenty (20) years of service upon reaching age fifty-seven (57).

Amends the pension benefits for both current and former Rhode Island state police members, and would extend the time period a member may serve in the Rhode Island state police.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 997 establishes the "Beverage Container Recycling Act," creating a statewide system for recycling certain beverage containers. The bill defines various terms, including which beverages and containers are covered by the program and who is considered a "producer" (brand owner) responsible for compliance. It outlines mechanisms for consumers to return empty containers, such as "express redemption sites" (like reverse vending machines) and "full-service redemption sites," to receive a refund value. This system aims to promote the recycling of drinkable liquids sold in prepackaged containers.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 1027 designates April 24, 2025, as "Rhode Island College Day" in the state. This resolution celebrates Rhode Island College and thanks its staff for their contributions to the citizens of Rhode Island.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 1021 celebrates "Y Day at the State House" on April 29, 2025, acknowledging the Rhode Island YMCA Alliance's contributions to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The resolution expresses gratitude to the staff and leadership of the state's YMCAs.