Enacts the Comprehensive PFAS Ban Act of 2024, prohibiting the intentional addition of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances of PFAS in products offered for sale or manufactured in the state as of January 1, 2027.
Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a new framework in Rhode Island to promote the adoption and integration of energy storage systems into the electric grid. It requires the Public Utilities Commission to create specific tariffs and interconnection rules by May 2025 that recognize the unique value of storing energy for later use. Additionally, the legislation mandates periodic assessments every three years to determine if storage projects can provide net benefits to ratepayers, with larger utility companies required to conduct competitive procurements if such needs are identified. By defining energy storage technologies and setting clear timelines for regulatory action, the bill aims to lower costs and improve grid reliability without replacing existing infrastructure.
Increases the maximum post retirement employment earnings from eighteen thousand dollars ($18,000) to twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000) a year for certain retired educators.
Authorizes the town of North Kingstown to issue not more than $137,200,000 bonds and notes for capital improvements of school facilities throughout the town, including a new Wickford middle school.
Enables cities and towns to enact enabling legislation authorizing a partner program to assist students with an IEP for specially designed physical education classes.
Requires the chief resilience officer (CRO) and a resiliency office within the department of environmental management (DEM) be charged with the creation, maintenance and updating of the state's resiliency and community recovery program.
Provides amendments to the Rhode Island Works Program regarding eligibility and cash assistance, and repeals the termination of benefits to a family because of failure of a family member to enter into or comply with an individual employment plan.
Requires that developers of ground-mounted solar systems submit a plan for decommissioning to be held on file by the municipality and requires DEM, with the office of energy resources, make publicly available model decommissioning plans.
Maddy summaryThis bill codifies the Rhode Island Early Care and Education Workforce Data Act to formally establish a statewide registry for early childhood educators. The Department of Human Services must implement this system by July 1, 2025, to collect data on staff working in licensed child care centers and family homes, including their demographics, qualifications, and turnover rates. Once established, the registry will provide educators with professional development opportunities and allow the state to generate annual reports on workforce characteristics for the public and government officials.
Implements a grant program to fund public or private partnerships that provide opportunities for healthcare paraprofessionals to pursue higher education degrees and health professional licensure.
