Sen. Sue Sosnowski

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (SR 595) that formally congratulates Matunuck Oyster Bar in Rhode Island for winning USA Today's 2025 Restaurants of the Year and Wine Spectator's two-glass Best of Award of Excellence. It recognizes the restaurant's "pond-to-plate philosophy," wine selection, and owner Perry Raso's aquaculture background, but contains no policy changes or funding. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the congratulatory statement to the restaurant owner. As a purely ceremonial measure, it does not affect any laws, regulations, or stakeholders.

Allows an individual, who is a first-time homebuyer, to contribute funds to a first- time homebuyers saving account with Rhode Island Housing to pay for eligible costs to purchase a home.

Includes "hosting platform" under the definition of "room-seller" and imposes a tax of 5% on the rental of a house or condominium with the tax used exclusively for infrastructure improvements, riverine and coastal resiliency and housing.

Requires that the state's share to public libraries be fixed at twenty-five percent (25%) of the amount appropriated by the city or town in their budgets for fiscal year 2026.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (SR 367), not a law with policy changes. It formally celebrates the 90th birthday of Robert Edward Kenahan on February 8, 2025, recognizing his career service as a Rhode Island State Police officer (20 years), U.S. Navy veteran (Korean Conflict), and security professional. The Senate passed the resolution on February 25, 2025, directing the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to Mr. Kenahan. It has no effect on laws, regulations, or any individual's rights or obligations.

Changes the fine for any person convicted of a first violation of this chapter from $85 to $200, and increases the period of time that the violator may be ordered to pick up litter.

Maddy summarySB 338, the Economic and Climate Resilience Act of 2025, imposes a fee on fossil fuel companies selling coal, oil, natural gas, and similar products in Rhode Island. The collected fees will fund a dedicated "Economic and Climate Resilience Fund" to support specific programs. This fund will provide job training for workers transitioning to clean energy, improve energy efficiency for low-income households and small businesses, and help businesses that use significant energy. The bill aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, meet Rhode Island's 2035 climate goals, and address climate impacts disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities. It directly affects fossil fuel sellers (who pay the fee) and benefits Rhode Island residents, particularly low-income households and energy-intensive businesses.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution expresses condolences on the passing of Rufina Delizo Rice, wife of former Rhode Island Representative Michael Rice. It directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to Michael Rice and his family. As a commemorative resolution, it has no policy provisions or direct impact beyond honoring her life and legacy. The resolution was unanimously passed by the Rhode Island Senate on February 11, 2025.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial Senate Resolution (SR 228) expressing condolences to the Munson family following the passing of Hilding T. Munson. It formally recognizes his 63-year service with the Snug Harbor Volunteer Fire Department, his 35-year career as a Rhode Island State Sheriff, and his community involvement. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to Judith A. Munson and her family. As a non-binding expression of sympathy, it has no policy impact or direct effect on legislation.

Maddy summarySB 153 establishes rules to protect minors under 18 who appear in compensated vlogs on social media. It requires vloggers featuring minors (meeting criteria like 30% screen time in content or $0.10/view compensation) to track detailed records and deposit 10-50% of earnings into a trust fund for the minor. The trust funds, held until the minor turns 18, must be managed by specific financial institutions and are enforceable through civil lawsuits by parents or guardians. This bill directly affects vloggers, families, and platforms hosting content featuring minors in Rhode Island.