Reduces the current varying percentages for early retirement penalty for teachers, municipal and state employees to a cumulative annual reduction of 3% and monthly reduction of .25%.
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 659 proposes to revise how retirement allowances are calculated for teachers, state employees, and municipal employees. The bill introduces new formulas and percentage allowances based on an employee's years of service and the date their membership in the retirement system began. It also modifies the period of compensation used to determine a retirement allowance, shifting between three and five highest consecutive years depending on the employee's retirement eligibility and date. These changes would apply to different groups of employees based on their service dates and retirement timelines, with some provisions taking effect as late as July 1, 2025.
Extends provisions of an existing collective bargaining agreement for municipal police arbitration purposes until a successor agreement is reached or an interest arbitration award is rendered.
Maddy summarySB 592 authorizes the creation of a special motor vehicle registration plate for the nonprofit organization Real Access Motivates Progress. Drivers can choose to purchase and display this specific plate, which replaces their standard registration plate. The bill establishes a $40 surcharge for the initial issuance of these plates, with $20 going to the state's general fund and $20 to the charity to support accessibility programs. Subsequent annual renewals include a $10 surcharge that goes directly to Real Access Motivates Progress, which is required to use these funds for Rhode Island-based charitable organizations.
Maddy summarySenate Resolution 1035 officially designates May 5-11, 2025, as "Lung Cancer Action Week" in the State of Rhode Island. This resolution encourages all Rhode Islanders to learn more about lung cancer, its risk factors, and early detection.
Maddy summarySenate Resolution 1034 supports the recognition of the Pokanoket Tribe as the ancient and ongoing stewards of their ancestral homeland and acknowledges their central role in shaping the region. It honors the tribe's ancestors and descendants, committing to promote and protect their cultural heritage, sacred lands, and rightful place in Rhode Island history.
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.
Limits the use of certain criminal records and credit history reports in denying housing to prospective applicants, and provides for fines for failure to comply. This act further requires notices of denials to be sent to the prospective tenants.
Submits 2026 capital development program requesting the issuance of $100,000,000 in general obligation bonds to the voters for approval at the November, 2026, general election.
