Sen. Victoria Gu

Maddy summarySB 2266 bans landlords and property managers from using computer programs (including AI tools) that rely on secret rental data from other landlords or tenants to set or adjust rent for residential properties. It specifically prohibits algorithms using nonpublic competitor data - like actual rent prices, occupancy rates, or lease details - to determine rent amounts or changes. The law takes effect January 1, 2027, with limited exemptions for housing programs, monthly market reports, and basic internal record-keeping systems. It directly affects residential landlords who currently use such tools to price rentals.

Establishes a revolving fund to assist first-time home buyers and veterans to purchase a home in Rhode Island by issuing grants of up to forty thousand dollars ($40,000).

Maddy summarySB 2620 sets the state's minimum wage at $20.00 per hour effective January 1, 2027, as part of a scheduled annual increase. This bill directly affects all covered hourly workers and employers subject to the state's minimum wage law. The legislation amends existing law by adding the 2027 rate to the established schedule, which previously set lower rates for prior years (e.g., $16.00 effective January 1, 2026). It does not include additional provisions beyond establishing this specific wage rate.

Maddy summarySB 2015 removes an existing licensing exemption for lenders who originate fewer than six loans in any 12-month period in Rhode Island. This change directly affects small lenders, including independent brokers or micro-lenders, requiring them to obtain a license under the state's financial institution regulations starting January 1, 2027. The key mechanism eliminates a specific exception in current law that previously allowed these entities to operate without oversight. The bill does not alter other existing exemptions for nonprofit lenders, large commercial loans, or certain financial institutions.

Maddy summarySB 2148 requires liquor license holders in Westerly to carry liability insurance. This directly affects businesses that sell alcohol in Westerly, including bars, restaurants, and retail stores with alcohol licenses. The key provision mandates that all retail alcohol licenses must include proof of liability insurance as a condition of renewal or issuance. The bill aims to ensure businesses have financial protection for potential incidents involving alcohol service.

Effective January 1, 2028, Increases the hourly minimum wage in accordance with the Consumer Price Index for the Northeast Region for the previous four (4) fiscal years.

Provides that exemptions to the prohibition of liquor licenses within two hundred feet (200') of schools or places of worship do not eliminate neighboring property owners’ remonstrance rights to object to the license.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution officially designates May 2026 as "Older Americans Month" throughout the State of Rhode Island. The measure honors the contributions of adults aged 65 and older, acknowledging their role in the community and economy while recognizing the state's history with senior support legislation. It directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to the Rhode Island Office of Healthy Aging to coordinate official observances. This symbolic action aims to foster intergenerational respect and highlight the needs and achievements of the state's aging population.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution designates May 6, 2026, as a "National Day of Reason" in Rhode Island to honor the role of critical thinking and scientific inquiry in solving societal challenges. The bill encourages citizens to observe the day by focusing on reason and free inquiry while citing historical figures like James Madison who valued knowledge. It also directs the Secretary of State to send copies of the resolution to two specific individuals, John Mertus and Joe Burgio.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates the first Saturday in May as "Rhode Island Labyrinth Day" and recognizes May 2, 2026, as "World Labyrinth Day" within the state. The bill aims to promote walking meditation labyrinths as a community practice for reflection, mindfulness, and well-being, encouraging residents to participate in the global "Wave of Peace" event at 1:00 p.m. It does not create new laws or funding but serves to raise awareness and support existing public spaces used for these activities. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send copies to relevant organizations and individuals involved in promoting labyrinths in Rhode Island.