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.
Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 2335) designates January 27, 2026, as "Rhode Island Food Insecurity Awareness Day" to highlight the state's growing food insecurity crisis. It directly affects Rhode Island residents by formally recognizing that 34% of households (with significantly higher rates among Black, Latino, and other communities of color) struggle to meet basic food needs, as documented in the 2026 Hunger Status Report. The resolution has no new funding or policy changes; it simply calls for public awareness on this issue and directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to the Governor for official recognition.
Prohibits a person to sell, offer for sale, display for sale or otherwise distribute a farmed animal fur product within the state and provides graduated civil penalties for violations.
Maddy summarySB 2229 requires all Rhode Island school buildings to meet "zero energy capable" standards by December 31, 2037, meaning they must generate as much renewable energy as they consume annually. The Department of Education must develop regulations by June 30, 2027, to implement these standards, which align with the Northeast Collaborative for High Performance Schools (NE-CHPS) guidelines. The bill ensures local school districts can access state/federal funding for energy projects without penalties or reduced housing aid, and provides guidance for using federal tax incentives for solar installations. This applies to all new school construction and major renovations, directly affecting public schools across Rhode Island.
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.
Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 2194) formally expresses the Rhode Island Senate's condolences upon the passing of Margaret M. Ottman of Bellingham. It honors her life and legacy, highlighting her 38-year federal career, quilting contributions, and role as a devoted family matriarch ("Nana"). The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to her daughter, Nancy Phillips, and family. As a ceremonial resolution with no policy impact, it directly affects only the Ottman family through this formal expression of sympathy.
Maddy summarySR 2192 is a ceremonial Senate resolution designating January 18-24, 2026, as "Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists Week" in Rhode Island. It recognizes the contributions of Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) and their role in providing safe, cost-effective anesthesia care across all healthcare settings, including rural communities and military facilities. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to the Rhode Island Association of Nurse Anesthetists (RIANA). As a symbolic gesture with no legal effect, it does not change laws or policies but honors CRNAs’ work, including their pandemic response.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution (SR 2193) expresses the Rhode Island Senate's deepest condolences upon the passing of Carrigan McCorrie-Raine Nelson. It commemorates her life, highlighting her seven-year battle with osteosarcoma, her achievements as a musician, Taekwondo champion, and advocate for childhood cancer awareness, and her recognition as "Person of the Year." The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to her parents, Tammy and Paul Nelson. As a commemorative measure, it has no binding policy impact or direct effect on legislation or constituents.
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.
