Sen. Mark McKenney

Maddy summaryThis bill amends the laws governing the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation to change how one of its directors is selected. Specifically, it requires that one of the seven directors of the Rhode Island Airport Corporation be appointed by the mayor of Warwick. The legislation focuses on adjusting the appointment process for a specific subsidiary rather than creating new policies or funding. This change directly affects the governance structure of the airport corporation by shifting one director's appointment authority from the state to a local official.

Maddy summarySB 2781 updates the state's Uniform Commercial Code to include modern definitions for emerging digital technologies. The bill amends the law's general provisions to formally define terms such as "electronic," "electronic document of title," and "control," ensuring these concepts apply to business transactions involving digital records. By clarifying how electronic documents function alongside traditional paper instruments, the legislation provides a consistent legal framework for buying, selling, and securing goods in the digital economy. These changes directly affect businesses and individuals engaged in commercial activities that rely on electronic systems for managing titles and contracts.

Permits Dyslexia Advocacy Rhode Island plates to be issued for passenger or commercial vehicles upon the satisfaction of the required criteria relative to the number of plates ordered.

Maddy summarySB 2644 establishes a formal process for condominium associations to notify and seek approval from mortgage holders before taking specific actions. Under this bill, associations must mail written requests to lenders, who are considered to have approved the action if they do not respond with a written denial within 65 days. The law clarifies that lenders cannot use this approval requirement to control the association's general administration or legal proceedings, ensuring the process remains focused on specific decisions. This change applies to condominiums created after July 1, 1982, and allows older condominiums to voluntarily adopt these rules through a written agreement.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits insurance companies from charging higher premiums to policyholders simply for asking questions about the terms of their coverage. It also prevents insurers from penalizing drivers for accidents or claims where the driver was not more than half at fault, or for property damage claims under $3,000. Additionally, the legislation bars insurers from refusing to renew policies or raising rates solely because a driver is 65 or older or because they volunteer for a nonprofit organization. These changes aim to restrict how insurers calculate rates and handle specific low-risk or non-fault situations.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a beverage container deposit recycling program in Rhode Island to reduce litter and increase recycling rates for single-use drinks. Under the new system, consumers would pay a small fee when purchasing eligible containers made of glass, plastic, or metal, which they can redeem at drop-off facilities for a refund. The Department of Environmental Management will oversee the program, while designated producer responsibility organizations will manage compliance for manufacturers and distributors. The law defines specific rules for which products are covered, how producers are identified, and the standards for recycled content in new packaging.

Exempts 30% of the lessor’s assessed real property tax expense over $19,500 for each calendar year remaining on the 10 year lease dated July 27, 2021, of Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

Allocates five percent (5%) of revenues from the local meals and beverage tax to the Rhode Island Semiquincentennial (R.I. 250) Commission for the execution of its duties from July 1, 2024 to December 31, 2026.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution expresses the state's deepest condolences for the passing of Eileen M. Rao, a lifelong resident of Providence and the co-founder of the local business Mr. Lemon. The document highlights her legacy as a dedicated business owner and family matriarch, noting her significant role in growing the lemonade stand into a family venture over nearly fifty years. It formally directs the Secretary of State to send copies of this sympathy resolution to her three children, Janice Valedofsky, Joseph Rao Jr., and Colleen Rao-Sales.

Amends certain election statutes to require ballot questions be written in plain language reasonably calculated to be understood by persons with an eighth-grade reading level.