Sen. Pam Lauria

Maddy summarySB 2366 amends Rhode Island's personal income tax code to modify how tuition savings program contributions are treated for tax purposes. It allows taxpayers to subtract up to $500 ($1,000 for joint returns) annually from federal adjusted gross income for contributions made to Rhode Island's tuition savings program, with specific restrictions on what qualifies as a deductible contribution. This affects residents using the tuition savings program who claim tax deductions for contributions. The bill also clarifies rules for nonqualified withdrawals from these accounts and their tax treatment. The changes apply to tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2026.

Maddy summaryThis resolution symbolically celebrates "Physician Anesthesiologists Week" in Rhode Island from January 26-February 1, 2026. It recognizes physician anesthesiologists for their role in patient safety during surgeries, labor, pain management, and care for Veterans, highlighting their extensive training and leadership in the Anesthesia Care Team model. The resolution urges citizens to acknowledge their contributions and directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to the American Society of Anesthesiologists. It does not create new laws, funding, or obligations.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution designates January 30, 2026, as "Fred Korematsu Day of Civil Liberties and the Constitution" in Rhode Island. It commemorates Fred Korematsu, a Japanese American who challenged the WWII internment of people of Japanese descent, and encourages Rhode Islanders to reflect on civil liberties and constitutional rights. The resolution promotes civic education through planned events involving schools, legal groups, and community organizations. As a commemorative resolution, it has no binding legal effect but formally recognizes Korematsu's legacy.

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.

Requires the department of human services to provide childcare assistance to families, including those served through DCYF, who meet the requirements of a protective services category as defined in CFR 98.20 (a)(3)(ii).

Maddy summaryThis resolution appropriates $2,000,000 from the state treasury for the Elisha Project, a Pawtucket-based nonprofit serving food-insecure families across Rhode Island, particularly in the Blackstone Valley. The funding supports the organization's existing operations, including providing meals and necessities to vulnerable communities, with specific programs for children, veterans, and families. The Elisha Project has previously served over 20 million meals, and this resolution authorizes the state controller to disburse the funds upon verified requests. It directly affects the Elisha Project's ability to expand services as food insecurity needs grow, without creating new policy or altering existing programs.

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 summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (SR 2072), not a policy bill. It formally expresses the Rhode Island Senate's condolences upon the passing of Thomas E. Hodge, a longtime Pawtucket resident and public servant. The resolution honors his 29 years on the Pawtucket City Council, his service as a state representative, and his community roles. The Senate directed the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to his family. No new laws or policies are created by this resolution.

Maddy summaryThis is a commemorative resolution (not a law) designating January 2026 as "Rhode Island Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month." It formally recognizes the issue through a symbolic observance, directing the Secretary of State to send certified copies to the President, Rhode Island Governor, and UN Secretary-General. The resolution does not create new laws, allocate funds, or directly affect any individuals or organizations. It serves solely as a symbolic gesture to raise awareness about human trafficking.

Extends reporting and expiration dates of commission studying RI's Healthcare Workforce Relating to Educating and Retaining Primary Care Physicians and a Medical School at URI from January 2, 2026, to March 1, 2026, and expires on June 30, 2026.