Requires the public utilities commission to provide for a classification of service for retail electricity consumers that are large energy use facilities.
Authorizes the automatic expungement of eligible conviction records by operation of law, initiated and completed by state agencies through electronic processes established within the judicial system.
Requires courts to presume release for most probation violations, set reasonable bail or non-monetary conditions, limit detention to cases of risk or danger, require prompt hearings, and mandate written reasons for detention.
Creates multiple chapters to provide and establish a comprehensive program for extended producer responsibility for packaging and paper, and for recycling of beverage containers.
Maddy summarySB 2794 establishes the Beverage Container Recycling Act in Rhode Island to create a new system for recycling beverage containers. The bill defines key terms such as "covered beverage container," "producer," and "consumer" to clarify who is responsible for recycling efforts and which products are included in the program. It sets up a refund program where consumers can return empty containers at designated sites to receive refunds, with provisions for both full-service redemption sites and express redemption sites that use virtual accounts. The legislation also outlines rules for fraud prevention, requires independent audits, and includes definitions for environmental justice areas and de minimis exemptions for small businesses.
Provides that the school year for all public schools, including traditional public and public charter schools, independent charter schools, and mayoral academies, would start on the same date of each calendar year.
Commencing July 1, 2026, this act eliminates the provision of this section that requires new applicants for employment under this section to pay the expense for their criminal background checks.
Maddy summarySB 2412 establishes a commemorative Rhode Island license plate honoring Governor Roger Williams, the first governor of the State of Rhode Island. Vehicle owners who apply for this plate must pay an additional $25 fee (with $15 covering plate costs and $10 going to the general fund) on top of standard registration fees. The bill is purely ceremonial and would not change vehicle registration rules for most drivers.
Establishes a digital electronics right to repair, which allows for digital electronic equipment and parts that are sold in this state on or after January 1, 2026, to be repaired at an independent repair provider.
Maddy summarySB 2135 repeals a law that previously prevented people from gaining legal rights to footways (sidewalks or pedestrian paths) through long-term, continuous use without permission. This change would allow property owners or neighbors to potentially claim footway access rights by meeting standard adverse possession requirements, removing the prior exception for carriage access. The bill directly affects property owners involved in disputes over sidewalk access or easements, enabling new legal pathways for resolving such claims.
