Amends various sections of law relating to campaign contributions and expenditures, including prohibitions on self-dealing with committee funds and prohibits donations made in fictitious names.
Maddy summarySB 2131 extends an existing rule prohibiting political activity within 50 feet of polling places to include early voting locations. It directly affects anyone distributing political materials or displaying campaign items near voting sites during both early voting and election day. The bill adds "early voting" to the current prohibition on politicking within 50 feet of polling entrances, ensuring the same buffer zone applies to all voting periods. This change clarifies that the 50-foot restriction covers all voting locations, not just election day.
Provides that the EOHHS, through Emergency Medicaid, cover dialysis for the treatment of end stage renal disease ("ESRD") and kidney transplants for RI residents who do not qualify for full Medicaid under federal law due to their immigration status.
Maddy summarySB 2196 prohibits courts or government entities from forcing individuals to reveal private keys that control access to digital assets (like cryptocurrency), digital identities, or other digital rights. It applies directly to people holding such keys, such as cryptocurrency owners or digital service users. The law allows exceptions only if a public key cannot be used to access the asset or information. This does not prevent legal actions requiring the transfer of the digital asset itself, only the forced disclosure of the private key. The bill would take effect immediately upon passage.
Directs the public utilities commission to establish a standardized framework for determining authorized common equity ratios and authorized rates of returns on equity for public utilities.
Maddy summaryThis bill repeals a law that previously blocked Rhode Island from monitoring or regulating broadband services, removing a barrier to state oversight. It requires the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation to develop a plan for a broadband oversight office to monitor service quality, map coverage gaps, and coordinate federal broadband funding. The bill is necessary to meet federal requirements for managing programs like the BEAD grant, which demand ongoing state-level tracking of broadband performance and coverage. This oversight structure will enable the state to better manage public broadband investments and address unserved areas.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates April 2026 as "Financial Literacy Month" in Rhode Island. It encourages residents to participate in financial education programs and directs the Secretary of State to share the resolution with the RI JumpStart Coalition. The bill does not create new laws or funding but serves as a symbolic declaration to highlight the importance of personal finance skills.
Maddy summaryThis bill designates March 31, 2026, as "Alzheimer's Association of Rhode Island Advocacy and Awareness Day" to honor the organization's efforts in supporting individuals affected by Alzheimer's disease. The resolution acknowledges the growing impact of the disease on Rhode Island's senior population and highlights the critical services provided by the Alzheimer's Association, such as caregiver support and education. By commemorating this date, the Senate aims to raise public awareness and encourage community support for those navigating the challenges of the disease. The Secretary of State is authorized to send a certified copy of the resolution to the Alzheimer's Association of Rhode Island.
Authorizes the appropriation of the sum of five million dollars ($5,000,000) to the RI Public Transit Authority to continue services, hire and train more bus operators, and implement the State's Act on Climate goals.
Requires police commission on standards/training to provide training/instructions for police detectives/officers/trainees to deal with traumatized youth resulting from incidents requiring a law enforcement response.
