Removes appointees of state boards, commissions, public authorities and quasi-public who have a corporate/business interest in the subject matter of the board or commission.
Maddy summarySenate Bill 607 amends existing laws related to the regulation of nurses and speech-language pathologists/audiologists. For nurses, the bill clarifies the rules for recent graduates to practice temporarily under supervision while awaiting their licensing exam results, requiring licensure within 90 days of graduation. It also refines conditions for out-of-state nurses who are temporarily practicing in the state. For speech-language pathologists and audiologists, the bill updates certain definitions, such as for "audiology support personnel," to align with current regulatory language. These changes aim to provide clarity and update professional licensing requirements.
Maddy summarySB 39 proposes to amend existing sales and use tax laws. It seeks to exempt scalp hair prostheses or wigs from sales tax. This exemption would apply to individuals who need these items due to hair loss caused by a medical condition.
Maddy summarySenate Bill 35 directs the Department of Education and the Office of Energy Resources to develop and adopt regulations for school buildings. By June 30, 2026, these regulations must require all new school construction and renovations to be "zero energy capable" by December 31, 2037, adhering to the latest Northeast Collaborative for High Performance Schools (NE-CHPS) standard. The bill mandates that these regulations allow flexibility for local education agencies to pursue state and federal funding for energy projects without reducing their state housing aid. Additionally, it requires guidance for local agencies to build, own, and operate solar panels.
Maddy summarySB 176 establishes the "Higher Education Opportunities for Students with Intellectual Disabilities Act." This bill allows students aged 18-21 (or up to 22) with severe intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, or other severe developmental disabilities, who receive special education services, to attend state colleges and universities. These students are not required to meet standard college admission criteria like entrance exams or a high school diploma. The act aims to provide inclusive educational opportunities, including participation in courses and development of employment and independent living skills, with costs covered as part of their special education services.
Maddy summarySR 632 is a Senate resolution requesting state and transportation authorities to study expanding MBTA commuter rail service between Providence and Wickford Junction. It specifically asks the Governor, RIDOT Director, and MBTA General Manager to explore increasing weekday evening service to Wickford and adding weekend service, based on current gaps (weekends currently lack Wickford stops). The resolution does not mandate changes but directs these agencies to report findings by June 2025. This affects MBTA operations, RIDOT coordination, and commuters traveling between Providence and Wickford Junction.
Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial Senate resolution (SR 968) expressing condolences to the family of Ronald D. Newman, a former Richmond Town Council member and longtime Rhode Island Department of Agriculture employee. The resolution honors his 29-year career in state agriculture, his service on the Richmond Town Council (including terms as Council President), and his community contributions. It was unanimously passed by the Rhode Island Senate on April 10, 2025, and directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to his wife, Cathleen Newman, and family. As a non-binding expression of sympathy, it does not create policy or affect any laws or constituents.
Maddy summaryThis is a Senate resolution (SR 967), not a bill with policy changes. It expresses the Rhode Island Senate's condolences to families who lost loved ones in the April 8, 2025, building collapse at the Jet Set Club in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, which killed 184 people. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to the Dominican Independence and Heritage Award Committee of Rhode Island (DIHACRI). It has no legislative effect or funding provisions, solely serving as a formal expression of sympathy.
Maddy summaryThis is a symbolic Senate resolution (SR 966), not a bill with policy changes. It expresses the Rhode Island Senate's formal support for the LGBTQIA+ community through a resolution passed on April 10, 2025. The resolution states the Senate's solidarity with the community, acknowledges ongoing challenges like discrimination and violence, and affirms the state's commitment to protecting civil rights. It does not create new laws, allocate funding, or directly affect individuals or policies; it is a declarative statement directed to the Governor via the Secretary of State.
Expands the DCYF powers by overseeing and administer comprehensive behavioral health services for children with serious emotional disturbances and children with developmental or functional disabilities.
