Sen. Lou Raptakis

Maddy summarySB 2718 increases fines for speeding violations in residential neighborhoods and school zones. It directly affects drivers who exceed speed limits in these specific areas. The bill establishes higher penalty amounts for speeding offenses occurring near homes or schools, aiming to enhance safety in vulnerable locations. This change modifies existing traffic penalty structures without altering speed limit laws themselves. The bill was introduced to the Senate Judiciary Committee on February 27, 2026.

Raises the amount of life insurance the state provides at no charge to Rhode Island National Guard members called up for federal duty to five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000).

Provides that when two or more individuals associate to accomplish the crime of shoplifting, that they would be deemed to be associated for the particular purpose of shoplifting and be guilty of a felony.

Maddy summarySB 2746 directs the Division of Motor Vehicles to create a special license plate for individuals working in the manufacturing industry. This bill does not change vehicle registration laws but adds a new plate option specifically for manufacturing workers. The key mechanism is the administrative creation of this plate type by the Division of Motor Vehicles. It directly affects manufacturing industry employees who choose to display this specialized plate on their vehicles.

Amends the audit compliance requirements for municipalities' contributions to pension plans under the budget of accounts and installation of systems chapter.

Establishes a procedure for a health insurer to reimburse a healthcare provider no less than sixty-five percent (65%) of each unpaid co-payment, co-insurance or deductible amount due, after reasonable collection efforts.

Defines squatter as a person occupying a dwelling unit who is not authorized by the property owner, landlord or tenant to occupy the unit and provides remedies for property owner including police assistance to remove a squatter.

Allows, but not require, local licensing authorities to grant temporary periods for extended indoor service hours under existing liquor licenses for certain 2026 FIFA World Cup Tournament matches.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates May 28, 2026, as "Pharmacy Advocacy Day" throughout Rhode Island. The measure recognizes the vital contributions of pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and student pharmacists to patient care and public health within the state. By declaring this specific date, the resolution encourages citizens and healthcare organizations to participate in events that highlight the role of pharmacy professionals in shaping healthcare policy. Additionally, the Secretary of State is instructed to send certified copies of the resolution to the Rhode Island Pharmacists Association and the Rhode Island Board of Pharmacy.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution honors the Girl Scouts of Southeastern New England for their long-standing work in empowering girls through leadership and community service. The bill formally expresses gratitude to the organization and its volunteers for their contributions to youth development and environmental stewardship in Rhode Island. It directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to the organization's CEO, Dana Borrelli-Murray, as a gesture of appreciation.