Sen. Mark McKenney

Prohibits cities or towns that implement a rent control ordinance from raising property taxes and such prohibition would last for as long as the rent control ordinance is in effect.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes a constitutional amendment that would remove the 30-day state and local residency requirement for voting, instead requiring voters to be registered by election day. It would maintain a 30-day residency requirement for candidates seeking office but eliminate the prior 30-day voter registration deadline. The amendment would directly affect all voters and candidates in Rhode Island by changing eligibility rules for elections. If approved by voters, it would replace the current voting and candidacy provisions in the state constitution, effective January 1, 2027.

Amends several statutes relating to elections and the dates for primaries and dates within which to file nomination papers and object to nomination papers.

Creates a state-run pilot program in Rhode Island that provides paid, low-barrier employment to individuals experiencing homelessness for community beautification and cleanup projects while connecting participants to supportive services.

Maddy summaryThis is a commemorative resolution, not a law. It designates February 10, 2026, as "The 3rd Rhode Island Regiment/Black Regiment Recognition Day" to honor Black soldiers who served in the integrated 1st Rhode Island Regiment during the American Revolutionary War (1778-1783). The resolution specifically recognizes their contributions, including their role at the Battle of Portsmouth in 1778, and expresses gratitude for their service. It has no legal effect on citizens or policies; it is a symbolic gesture to ensure this history is acknowledged, shared with historical organizations, and formally communicated to state and federal leaders.

Makes changes to the access to public records act, including clarifying various provisions, increasing the sanctions for knowing and willful violations of the law, and making certain traffic accident data and preferred license plate information public.

Maddy summarySB 2222 establishes a fee on fossil fuel sellers (like gasoline, diesel, and natural gas companies) operating in Rhode Island. The collected fees will fund the "Economic and Climate Resilience Fund," which will support clean energy programs, energy efficiency upgrades for low-income households and small businesses, and worker transition initiatives for jobs in low-carbon industries. The bill aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, address climate impacts disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities, and help Rhode Island meet its 2035 emissions goals. This is a proposed legislative measure introduced in January 2026 and not yet enacted.

Classifies, research, intent and interest in healthcare services as protected healthcare data. Adds responsibilities for regulated entities that seek to collect and share consumer data including a requirement for specific and conspicuous consumer consent.

Grants tenants that are the victim of various forms of abuse including, but not limited to, sexual and domestic abuse and stalking, the right to terminate a lease agreement early without penalty or liability for rent.

Maddy summarySB 2081 creates a state-funded tuition assistance program for Rhode Island students pursuing teaching careers in critical shortage fields, specifically science and mathematics for grades 7-12. It provides financial support covering tuition and certain non-tuition costs (like transportation or childcare) at Rhode Island colleges, after other financial aid is applied. To qualify, students must enroll in a teaching program in these fields and agree to complete three years of full-time teaching in Rhode Island public or private schools. If recipients don't finish their degree or fulfill the teaching requirement, the assistance converts to a repayable loan.