Sen. Pete Appollonio

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution expresses condolences for the passing of Francisco J. "El Grande" Batista, a Rhode Island resident and longtime real estate professional. The bill directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to the Batista family, acknowledging his contributions to the community and his role as a father, brother, and husband. It serves as a formal recognition of his life and the impact he had on those who knew him.

Permits municipalities to enter into contracts with the department of transportation for the municipality to perform minor and routine maintenance work on state highways, roadways, and shoulders located within the municipality.

Maddy summarySB 2276 repeals the state's current law on unreasonable noise levels, which set specific limits (such as sound audible 100 feet away or penetrating a vehicle from 20 feet) and replaces it with a provision allowing cities and towns to establish their own local noise control ordinances. Municipalities will be able to set their own maximum sound levels for different activities, considering factors like time of day, proximity to homes, and whether noise comes from residential or commercial sources. The bill removes state-level noise restrictions but does not impose new state regulations, shifting responsibility for noise control to local governments. This change takes effect upon passage.

Amends Rhode Island's standard fire insurance policy by codifying uniform, transparent appraisal procedures and payment obligations that reflect contemporary claim-handling practices while preserving long-standing consumer protections.

Maddy summarySB 2183 eliminates the registration and service charge fees for vehicles displaying National Guard license plates. This directly affects National Guard members who use these specialized plates for their personal vehicles. The bill's key provision is removing these specific fees from the state's vehicle registration system, simplifying the process for eligible National Guard members without altering other registration requirements.

Raises the gross weight of a vehicle eligible for reserve forces plates from 8,500 lbs. to 12,000 lbs. with US flag on the plates. Proof of honorable discharge to be provided to DMV.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution designates March 2026 as "Arts in the Schools - Youth Art Month" in Rhode Island to recognize the importance of arts education. The bill celebrates the contributions of arts educators, artists, and administrators while encouraging citizens to observe the month and support arts programs in schools. It directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to the Rhode Island State Council on the Arts. The resolution highlights how arts education benefits students by fostering skills like critical thinking, collaboration, and cultural competency.

Expands various definitions relative to contractors, home inspectors, and claim adjusters to provide clarity regarding licensed and unlicensed vendors, consultants, or third-party representatives.

Maddy summarySB 2302 makes it a minor criminal offense (misdemeanor) to knowingly file a false complaint about misconduct involving law enforcement, public safety personnel, or hospital staff. The bill specifically targets individuals who falsely report misconduct to authorities with the intent of causing harm, such as falsely accusing an officer of wrongdoing. Penalties include up to one year in jail, a $500 fine, and mandatory compensation to the falsely accused person for damages. This bill directly affects anyone who files such false reports, aiming to prevent misuse of complaint systems. The bill was introduced in the Senate Judiciary Committee on January 23, 2026, and is pending further action.

Maddy summarySB 2316 makes assaulting a sports official (like a referee, umpire, or coach) during their duties a felony, affecting all levels of organized sports including youth leagues, schools, and professional events. The bill imposes penalties of up to three years in prison or a $3,000 fine for basic assault, and 3-20 years in prison or a $10,000 fine if serious bodily injury occurs. Convicted individuals must also pay restitution to victims, complete up to 500 hours of community service, or attend counseling, in addition to any prison time or fines. This law applies to assaults before, during, or after any sporting event where officials are enforcing rules.