Sen. Pete Appollonio

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution welcomes the Narragansett Council of Scouting America to the Rhode Island State House and celebrates Scouting Month in February. The bill recognizes the council's youth development programs, community service efforts, and educational opportunities provided to thousands of Rhode Island youth and their families. It formally thanks Scouts and volunteer leaders for their contributions to leadership training, food drives, and outdoor education programs throughout the state. The resolution authorizes the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to the council's executive director.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates March 2026 as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in Rhode Island to highlight the importance of early detection and prevention. The bill does not create new laws or funding but serves as a formal proclamation to raise public awareness about colorectal cancer screening and education. It directs the Secretary of State to send copies of the resolution to relevant health organizations, including the American Cancer Society and the American College of Gastroenterology. The resolution recognizes the state's commitment to improving access to colorectal cancer screenings and honors past advocacy efforts in the area.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution commemorates the 50th anniversary of Sojourner House of Rhode Island, a nonprofit organization founded in 1976 to combat domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. The bill formally recognizes the organization's five decades of service, which includes providing emergency shelter, transitional housing, and permanent supportive housing to over 60,000 Rhode Islanders. It authorizes the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to Vanessa Volz, the CEO of Sojourner House, as an official acknowledgment of their work. The resolution does not create new laws or funding but serves as a ceremonial tribute to the organization's impact on survivor support across the state.

Maddy summaryThis bill would allow restaurants and other food service establishments in Rhode Island to accept reusable containers brought by customers for filling or refilling with takeout food and drinks. The legislation defines consumer-provided containers as durable, cleanable receptacles that are structurally sound and free from contamination, and it requires the Department of Health to update food safety rules by July 2027 to permit this practice. The bill also mandates that the department create and publish guidance materials for businesses on inspecting containers, preventing cross-contamination, and following safe operational procedures. Importantly, the law does not require establishments to accept or fill customer-provided containers, leaving that decision to individual businesses.

Maddy summarySB 2428 prohibits retailers in Rhode Island from using dynamic or surveillance pricing practices - where prices change based on consumer data or behavior - to sell goods or services to individual consumers. It directly affects retailers (including online sellers) operating within the state, requiring them to set fixed prices rather than algorithmically adjusted ones. The bill defines "price" broadly to include all costs and fees, and aligns with existing deceptive trade practices laws by banning tactics that mislead consumers about pricing. This law takes effect on January 1, 2026, and expires on March 31, 2026, pending further legislative action.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution designates March 19, 2026, as "Rhode Island College Day" in the State of Rhode Island to honor the institution's contributions to the community. The bill recognizes Rhode Island College as the state's oldest public college and highlights its academic programs, athletic achievements, and recent investments in modernizing facilities for science and cybersecurity education. It directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to the college president, Dr. Jack R. Warner, as a formal acknowledgment of the college's role in the state's education and economic development.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution commemorates the Feast of Saint Joseph, honoring the patron saint of workers and family. It recognizes Saint Joseph's role as a symbol of faith, hard work, and family solidarity, particularly within the Italian-American community in Rhode Island. The resolution authorizes the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to the Italian American Historical Society of Rhode Island. This is a ceremonial document that acknowledges cultural heritage and does not create new laws or policies.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution expresses condolences to the D'Adamo family following the death of Vincent D'Adamo, Jr., a longtime Providence resident and pharmacist. The bill formally acknowledges his life, including his military service in the Korean War, his career running a pharmacy in North Providence, and his community involvement. It directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to Mr. D'Adamo's children, Julie Persechino and Sandra Bucci.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution expresses condolences to the family of the late James M. Donelan, a former Rhode Island State Senator from Warwick. The bill honors his life and career, noting his service in the 15th District from 1990 to 2002 and his work on the Good Driving Statute. It directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to Donelan's family as a formal acknowledgment of the Senate's respect for his contributions to public service and his community.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution honors Miranda Marie Musumeci for being named Miss Ireland in the West Warwick St. Patrick's Day Parade 2026. The bill recognizes her contributions to Irish heritage and community service, highlighting her involvement in various school and community activities. It directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to Musumeci as formal acknowledgment of her achievement. This is a ceremonial measure that does not create new laws or policy changes.