Sen. Mark McKenney

Maddy summarySB 601 increases penalties for public utilities and carriers that violate duties outlined in state law. It raises fines for violations from $200-$1,000 to $200-$5,000 per offense, with each day of a continuing violation treated as a separate violation. The bill also imposes misdemeanor penalties of $100-$1,000 on utility officers or agents who violate rules or fail to comply with regulatory orders. This directly affects public utilities (like gas, water, or electric providers) and their employees responsible for adhering to regulatory requirements.

Amends the definitions of a “pupil transportation vehicle” to a vehicle contrasted to seat not more than ten (10) passengers plus the operator, rather than the existing limit of eight (8) passengers.

Gives authority to the department of labor and training to enforce violations of the laws relating to corrosion prevention and mitigation work requirements. It also adds civil monetary penalties for violations of those laws.

Maddy summaryThis bill (SR 871) appropriates $500,000 from the state treasury to fund the operational costs of Rhode Island's 2-1-1 human services hotline. The 2-1-1 system, operated by the United Way of Rhode Island, provides free, confidential, 24/7 assistance in nearly 200 languages to help residents access resources for housing, healthcare, food, childcare, and crisis support. The funding supports the existing service, which handled over 190,000 requests in 2023-2024 and aids state agencies by identifying community needs. The resolution passed the Senate on June 20, 2025, and directs the state controller to pay the United Way upon verification.

Requires submission of a domestic violence/sexual assault reporting form when the domestic violence response or investigation involves a verbal argument or dispute.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (SR 1160), not a policy bill. It expresses the Rhode Island Senate's condolences to the Savini family following the passing of Roger A. Savini, a Woonsocket restaurant owner and community member. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to his widow, Micheline Savini. It has no policy impact or funding provisions, serving solely as a formal tribute.

Extends certain protocols applicable to vehicle manufacturers to their distributors and factory branches, updates definitions relative to common entities and sales.

Requires individuals seeking a judicial nomination to reapply to JNC every 3 years and make those individuals selected as finalists, eligible only for the court in which they applied and were chosen during the five years following their selection.

Maddy summarySB 1097 requires that Class 1 property tax rates in Warwick be set at no less than 57% of Class 2 property tax rates, ensuring a minimum ratio between the two classifications. This directly affects property owners in Warwick, as the city assessor must apply this ratio when determining annual tax rates. The bill amends local tax law to mandate this specific rate relationship for Class 1 and Class 2 properties, rather than requiring identical rates. It applies retroactively to the December 31, 2024, property assessment.

Maddy summarySB 1111 proposes three amendments to the Warwick City Charter requiring voter approval. It would allow electronic notice for special council meetings (replacing only in-person or residence delivery), raise the small procurement threshold (currently $1,000-$2,500) to be adjustable by city ordinance, and require the city council to establish via ordinance how minority party representation is appointed to city boards and commissions. These changes directly affect Warwick City Council members, city purchasing staff, and individuals appointed to city boards. The bill must be approved by voters in November 2026 (or a special election) to take effect.