Sen. Pete Appollonio

Maddy summaryThis resolution commemorates May 11 through May 17, 2025, as "National Police Week" in the State of Rhode Island. It honors police and law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty, acknowledging their sacrifice.

Authorizes emergency medical service agencies to transport individuals to alternative facilities for treatment and permits licensed providers for mental health disorders to treat patients within the community.

Requires that Medicaid enrollment be maintained or provided to all inmates in the first 30 days of incarceration at the adult correctional institutions within the department of corrections and the last 30 days of incarceration when possible.

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.

Provides that a student's enrollment in Medicaid would be included in calculating and determining the student success factor for use in the foundation education-aid formula.

Maddy summarySB 914 removes the registration fee and plate transfer charge for special motor vehicle plates issued to recipients of the United States Army Distinguished Service Cross medal. Previously, these individuals were required to pay these fees for their Distinguished Service Cross plates. The bill ensures that applicants, including surviving spouses who receive the plate, will no longer incur these costs. This change is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

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.

Maddy summarySB 947 increases the penalties for drivers involved in motor vehicle accidents that result in injury, serious bodily injury, or death. The bill specifically raises the terms for imprisonment, fines, and license revocation for drivers who knowingly fail to stop after such accidents. It establishes stricter penalties based on the severity of the outcome and whether it's a first or subsequent offense. Additionally, the bill increases penalties for "driving so as to endanger" offenses that cause death or serious bodily injury, and these provisions apply to accidents involving pedestrians or cyclists.

Exempts certain cities and towns whose communities exceed the low and moderate income housing threshold from the tax of the previous year's gross scheduled rental income.

Maddy summarySB 449 mandates a re-amortization of the state pension fund, beginning with fiscal year 2026. This means the state will recalculate the payment schedule for its pension fund's outstanding liabilities. The change directly affects the determination of the employer contribution rate paid by the State of Rhode Island into the retirement system for public officers and employees. It amends the section of law that outlines the actuarial cost method used for these contributions and benefits.