Sen. Sue Sosnowski

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 993 designates May of 2025 as "Rhode Island Native Plant Month." This resolution also requests the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) to encourage citizens to educate themselves about the importance and benefits of native plants to the state's environment and economy.

Provides that a hearing required before a judge or magistrate may adjudge a motorist in contempt for failure to comply with the court's orders regarding a conditional hardship license, and defines penalties for violation of a hardship/interlock order.

Allows on and after September 1, 2025, an owner of motor vehicle(s) to transfer ownership and registration of said vehicle on their death, by a certificate of title designation and requires DMV to amend title forms, to include transfer-on-death language.

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 summarySB 406, known as the Microplastics Reduction Act, aims to reduce microplastic pollution within the state. Beginning January 1, 2029, it prohibits manufacturers from selling or distributing products that contain intentionally added synthetic polymer microparticles. The bill also requires the Department of Environmental Management, in consultation with the Department of Health, to develop a microplastics testing plan by July 1, 2028, to monitor environmental media. Furthermore, by January 1, 2029, these departments must establish a statewide microplastics strategy plan to assess impacts, identify sources, and recommend policies for reduction.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 995 expresses the deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences of the Rhode Island Senate on the passing of the Honorable Dominick J. Ruggerio, the former President and Dean of the Rhode Island Senate. It directs the Secretary of State to transmit certified copies of the resolution to his family.

Increases the state earned-income credit as of January 1, 2026 to seventeen percent (17%) of the federal earned-income credit, not to exceed the amount of state income tax.

Maddy summarySB 44 grants the town council of South Kingstown the authority to create a homestead exemption ordinance. This ordinance would allow the council to reduce the assessed value of certain residential or mixed-use properties for local taxation by up to 10%. The exemption applies to properties used exclusively for residential purposes (with less than five units) or for a combination of residential and commercial uses, with a prorated amount for mixed-use properties. The town council would establish rules and regulations to determine eligibility for this exemption. This act is set to take effect on December 31, 2025.

Increases the maximum amount of the Kingston water district bonding authority from four million dollars ($4,000,000) to fifteen million dollars ($15,000,000).

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.