Sen. Lou Raptakis

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates May 2024 as "National Speech-Language-Hearing Month" in Rhode Island to raise awareness about communication disorders. The bill urges state agencies, including the Departments of Human Services and Elementary and Secondary Education, to organize hearing screenings and special events during this month. It also encourages educators, specialists, and the public to acknowledge the work of audiologists and speech-language pathologists who help individuals manage these conditions. By transmitting copies of the resolution to relevant officials and organizations, the state aims to promote better understanding and support for those affected by hearing, language, and speech issues.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution formally recognizes the Manissean Tribal Natives of Block Island and honors their ancestors and descendants. It acknowledges the tribe's long history on the island, noting their significant population decline over time and their traditional lifestyle of fishing, hunting, and farming. The bill directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to the current President of the Manissean Tribe. This measure serves as a symbolic gesture to support the preservation of the tribe's culture and historical sites rather than enacting new laws or funding.

Proposes a state constitutional amendment that no department or other entity created by the state would have poser to incur debt in excess of $ 50,000, without express approval from the legislature and voters.

Provides PILOT to Exeter for state owned properties. Imposes no duty on Exeter to protect these properties. Requires payments to be used to create a police department or defray town expenses used to provide police protection.

Maddy summaryThis bill directs the Rhode Island General Assembly to provide annual funding to the town of Exeter to replace property taxes that would normally be levied on state-owned land within that municipality. The legislation specifically amends existing laws to ensure Exeter receives financial compensation for state properties, distinguishing it from other towns that receive similar aid for exempt private schools or hospitals. By securing these appropriations, the bill aims to offset the revenue loss the town faces due to tax exemptions on state facilities, with the funds intended to support general municipal services.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes to set a statewide cap of 12% per year on the interest or penalties that cities and towns can charge on unpaid local taxes. Currently, local municipalities have the authority to set these rates up to 18%, but this legislation would lower that maximum limit for most towns while keeping the existing 12% cap for the city of Cranston. The change aims to standardize the maximum cost of late payments across the state by amending the General Laws regarding local tax assessments.

Requires any benefit enhancements afforded under the employees' retirement system of Rhode Island or the municipal employees' retirement system to be amortized over individual five (5) year closed periods.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates May 2024 as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in Rhode Island. The bill honors the historical and cultural contributions of these communities to the state, citing their long-standing presence and achievements in fields such as education, healthcare, and the military. It encourages all Rhode Islanders to participate in programs and activities that celebrate this heritage during the month. Additionally, the resolution directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the document to individuals who have helped promote this history and culture.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution formally welcomes Boys Town New England to the Rhode Island State House on May 23, 2024, and thanks the organization for its work supporting children and families. The bill recognizes the organization's history and current services, which include residential care, foster care initiatives, and community-based programs that have helped over 20,000 individuals in the past year. It also highlights the organization's high financial rating from Charity Navigator and its behavioral intervention model aimed at helping students succeed. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to the organization's president and executive director.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates May 21, 2024, as "Korea Day" throughout the State of Rhode Island. The measure honors the contributions of the Korean American community, acknowledges the historical ties between Rhode Island and South Korea, and recognizes the state's economic relationship with the nation. It directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to the Korean American Association of Rhode Island and the Consul General of the Republic of Korea in Boston.