Sen. Pete Appollonio

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates the first Saturday in May as "Rhode Island Labyrinth Day" and recognizes May 2, 2026, as "World Labyrinth Day" within the state. The bill aims to promote walking meditation labyrinths as a community practice for reflection, mindfulness, and well-being, encouraging residents to participate in the global "Wave of Peace" event at 1:00 p.m. It does not create new laws or funding but serves to raise awareness and support existing public spaces used for these activities. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send copies to relevant organizations and individuals involved in promoting labyrinths in Rhode Island.

Maddy summarySB 2536 modifies Rhode Island's personal income tax code to exclude up to $25,000 of social security income from taxable income for residents. This change applies to tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2027, directly affecting Rhode Island residents receiving social security benefits. The bill amends Section 44-30-12 to add this exclusion as a modification reducing federal adjusted gross income. It does not change other tax provisions but specifically lowers taxable income for qualifying social security recipients. The bill is currently pending in the Senate Finance Committee after introduction on February 13, 2026.

Maddy summarySB 2228 modifies Rhode Island's personal income tax code to adjust how social security income is treated for tax purposes. Starting with tax years beginning January 1, 2027, the bill allows a modification to federal adjusted gross income specifically for all social security benefits received by residents. This change directly affects Rhode Island residents who receive Social Security payments, as it alters how those benefits are counted toward their state taxable income. The bill does not change the federal tax treatment of social security benefits but adjusts the state-level calculation. The provision is part of broader tax code amendments but focuses specifically on social security income for state tax computation.

Caps amount payable for 30 day supply of equipment/supplies for insulin administration/glucose monitoring at $25 or equipment designed to last more than 30 days with no deductible commencing January 1, 2027.

Caps the total amount that a covered person is required to pay for a covered prescription inhaler, prescription device, or prescription equipment to twenty-five dollars ($25.00) per thirty (30) day supply.

Restricts application of pesticides and rodenticides at schools and childcare centers and requires schools to provide copies of notice to parents and guardians.

Maddy summarySB 2321 creates an equivalent training certification program at municipal police academies, allowing candidates with prior law enforcement experience to bypass standard academy training. It directly affects sworn police officers who have worked full-time for at least one year in law enforcement, received training comparable to state standards, and have no more than an eight-year gap since their last sworn position. The bill establishes specific eligibility requirements for certification, including documented experience and training alignment with existing standards. This program provides an alternative pathway for qualified candidates to become certified without completing the full municipal academy curriculum.

Requires public auctions by any city or town of real estate or an interest therein to only be done in person and not by electronic or remote procedures unless authorized by court order.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates May 2026 as "Jewish American Heritage Month" throughout Rhode Island to honor the community's historical and ongoing contributions to the state. The bill highlights Jewish Americans' roles in Rhode Island's economy, culture, education, military service, and healthcare while promoting unity and combating prejudice. It directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to relevant community leaders and organizations to facilitate observance. This measure is symbolic and does not alter laws or create new government programs.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution expresses condolences for the passing of Mary Ann "Mare" Johnson, a lifelong resident of Rhode Island who died on April 5, 2026. The measure formally acknowledges her life and directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to her family. It does not create new laws or policy changes but serves as a ceremonial gesture of sympathy from the state legislature.