Sen. Lou Raptakis

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially recognizes and celebrates World Greek Language Day in Rhode Island, as proclaimed by UNESCO. The bill directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to Greek diplomatic and religious leaders in the United States. It serves as a commemorative acknowledgment of the Greek language's historical and cultural significance rather than implementing new laws or policies.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution affirms Rhode Island's commitment to supporting women in the construction trades and expanding equitable access to careers in the industry. It recognizes current underrepresentation of women in construction and highlights the benefits of unionized apprenticeship programs, which offer family-sustaining wages and benefits without student loan debt. The resolution calls for continued support of union efforts to recruit, train, and retain women while directing the Secretary of State to share the document with relevant construction councils.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution honors Miranda Marie Musumeci for being named Miss Ireland in the West Warwick St. Patrick's Day Parade 2026. The bill recognizes her contributions to Irish heritage and community service, highlighting her involvement in various school and community activities. It directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to Musumeci as formal acknowledgment of her achievement. This is a ceremonial measure that does not create new laws or policy changes.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution expresses condolences for the passing of Francisco J. "El Grande" Batista, a Rhode Island resident and longtime real estate professional. The bill directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to the Batista family, acknowledging his contributions to the community and his role as a father, brother, and husband. It serves as a formal recognition of his life and the impact he had on those who knew him.

Amends the definition of "domestic violence" to include the coercive control of another resulting in a pattern of behavior that in purpose or effect unreasonably interferes with another person's free will or personal liberty.

Maddy summarySB 2276 repeals the state's current law on unreasonable noise levels, which set specific limits (such as sound audible 100 feet away or penetrating a vehicle from 20 feet) and replaces it with a provision allowing cities and towns to establish their own local noise control ordinances. Municipalities will be able to set their own maximum sound levels for different activities, considering factors like time of day, proximity to homes, and whether noise comes from residential or commercial sources. The bill removes state-level noise restrictions but does not impose new state regulations, shifting responsibility for noise control to local governments. This change takes effect upon passage.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a new chapter in Rhode Island law requiring law enforcement, courts, and correctional facilities to identify and verify the veteran status of individuals involved in the criminal justice system. It mandates that agencies use federal databases to confirm veteran status within 24 hours of law enforcement contact, 21 days for parolees, and 7 days for inmates, then share this information with judges, prosecutors, and defense attorneys. Verified veterans gain access to veterans justice outreach specialists who assist with connecting to VA healthcare, federal benefits, specialty courts, and diversion programs. The bill also requires weekly reporting of verified veterans to relevant state agencies and courts to ensure coordinated support services.

Maddy summaryThis bill, the Military Child Act, creates new enrollment rules for military-connected students in Rhode Island public schools. It defines "military-connected student" as a dependent of active-duty U.S. military personnel or Rhode Island National Guard members. The law allows these students to enroll remotely without physical presence using military orders, and permits "open enrollment" into any school district regardless of capacity if they provide a Department of Defense ID and proof of active duty orders for 30+ days. These provisions aim to reduce disruption during military relocations by simplifying school transfers.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution expresses condolences for seven U.S. military personnel who died during a conflict with Iran. It directly affects the families of the deceased service members and acknowledges their specific contributions and service records. The bill authorizes the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to each family as a formal gesture of respect. It does not create new laws or policies but serves as a ceremonial acknowledgment of the fallen soldiers' sacrifice.

Maddy summarySB 2316 makes assaulting a sports official (like a referee, umpire, or coach) during their duties a felony, affecting all levels of organized sports including youth leagues, schools, and professional events. The bill imposes penalties of up to three years in prison or a $3,000 fine for basic assault, and 3-20 years in prison or a $10,000 fine if serious bodily injury occurs. Convicted individuals must also pay restitution to victims, complete up to 500 hours of community service, or attend counseling, in addition to any prison time or fines. This law applies to assaults before, during, or after any sporting event where officials are enforcing rules.