Sen. Mark McKenney

Maddy summarySB 2739 amends the process for reimbursing workers' compensation costs when a third party (such as another company or individual) is liable for an injury. It changes how employers and insurers handle reimbursements after a third party pays damages to an injured worker. This directly affects injured workers, employers, and insurance providers in cases involving third-party liability. The bill clarifies procedural steps under existing workers' compensation law without altering benefit amounts or eligibility.

Permits a nurse who has the appropriate knowledge, credentials and clinical competency, to provide home services foot care, which includes routine foot and nail care, as well as implementing a plan of care that includes hygiene and fingernails.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates May 2026 as "Jewish American Heritage Month" throughout Rhode Island to honor the community's historical and ongoing contributions to the state. The bill highlights Jewish Americans' roles in Rhode Island's economy, culture, education, military service, and healthcare while promoting unity and combating prejudice. It directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to relevant community leaders and organizations to facilitate observance. This measure is symbolic and does not alter laws or create new government programs.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution expresses condolences for the passing of Mary Ann "Mare" Johnson, a lifelong resident of Rhode Island who died on April 5, 2026. The measure formally acknowledges her life and directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to her family. It does not create new laws or policy changes but serves as a ceremonial gesture of sympathy from the state legislature.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution designates April 28, 2026, as "Arts Day in Rhode Island" to highlight the importance of arts and culture within the state. The bill encourages all residents to reflect on how creative activities enrich their lives and support local communities. It does not create new laws or funding but serves as a formal proclamation to recognize the economic and social benefits of the arts sector. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send copies of the document to the Rhode Island State Council on the Arts and the Rhode Island Coalition for the Arts.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution formally acknowledges the essential contributions of independent community pharmacies to Rhode Island's healthcare system and local economies. It highlights how these locally owned businesses provide personalized care, support neighborhood jobs, and offer reliable access to medications for residents, particularly seniors and those with chronic conditions. The document expresses appreciation for pharmacists and their staff while directing the Secretary of State to send copies of the resolution to the Rhode Island Pharmacists Association and independent pharmacies. As a symbolic measure, the bill does not alter any laws or funding but serves to honor the role these pharmacies play in the state.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires condominium associations to perform structural surveys and reserve studies to assess building conditions and future repair needs. It mandates that these associations maintain financial reserves at a minimum of 15% to ensure funds are available for necessary repairs. The legislation directly affects homeowners and property managers in condominium communities by establishing new financial and planning requirements. These provisions aim to improve long-term maintenance planning and financial stability for condominium properties without specifying particular repair projects or outcomes.

Maddy summarySB 2441 imposes a $2-per-ton fee on solid waste disposal in Rhode Island, collected from waste haulers and landfill operators. Revenue from this fee funds a Compost Fund that awards grants to support composting facilities, organic waste diversion programs, and municipal waste reduction initiatives. Municipalities must opt into the fee program to qualify for related grants. The bill directly affects waste disposal companies, participating municipalities, and organizations seeking funding for composting infrastructure, aiming to reduce landfill use as Rhode Island's central landfill is projected to fill by 2043.

Maddy summarySB 2388 freezes the issuance of new home care, home nursing, and hospice provider licenses until July 1, 2031, with limited exceptions for emergencies, pending applications, ownership changes, or geographic service gaps. During the moratorium, the Department of Health must conduct a statewide study to assess current service availability, underserved areas, and future needs. The maximum number of licenses for each category is capped at the 2026 count, decreasing annually if providers close. If the health department fails to complete the study by 2031, the license freeze remains in effect.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates April as "Holocaust & Genocide Awareness Month" in Rhode Island. It encourages history and social science teachers to include lessons about past and ongoing genocides in their classrooms to promote understanding and prevent future atrocities. The bill directs the Secretary of State to send copies of this proclamation to the Commissioner of Education and the state's Holocaust and Genocide Education Commission.