Sen. Tiara Mack

Maddy summaryThis bill is a funding resolution appropriating $100,000 from the state treasury for the Rhode Island Commission on Prejudice and Bias for fiscal year 2025-2026. The commission, established in 1981, studies prejudice and bias, provides mandatory hate crime training for law enforcement, and assists victims of hate crimes. The resolution addresses declining federal and state grant funding that has hindered the commission's ability to fulfill its statutory duties. The funds will be distributed through the RI Coalition Against Domestic Violence, the commission's fiscal agent. This is a procedural funding measure, not a policy change.

Authorizes the Providence city council to set the veterans tax exemption limit to an amount determined by the city council via ordinance or resolution.

Maddy summarySB 779 would impose a 1% tax on the worldwide value of intangible assets owned by Rhode Island residents, including both individuals and businesses, starting January 1, 2026. The tax applies to assets like stocks, patents, trademarks, copyrights, and financial investments as of December 31 each year, calculated using fair market value. Residents would file annual returns by April 15th reporting their taxable wealth, which excludes certain assets like real estate. The bill defines "intangible assets" broadly to include both financial investments and non-financial property such as trade secrets or business reputation.

Allows the city of Providence to adopt higher rates for the marginal value of residential property in excess of $1,000,000 per dwelling. Taxpayers below a certain income level may be exempt and additional revenue would be exempt.

Bills nonprofit colleges and universities in the city of Providence for municipal services if they do not reach a memorandum of agreement with the city for increased payments.

Requires the Rhode Island general assembly to address its legislation with attention to equity and the impact its legislation will have on Rhode Island's diverse and various communities.

Allows eligible individuals serving sentences of imprisonment to seek sentence reductions from the superior court, individuals serving life without parole or minimum mandatory sentences pursuant to law, would not be eligible for such relief.

Establishes a statewide “Healthy School Meals for all” universal school breakfast and lunch program in Rhode Island public schools phased in over 3 years.

Provides $4,000,000 to support comprehensive and effective afterschool, school vacation, summer learning and workforce development programs for students in grades kindergarten through twelve (K-12).

Mandates that EOHHS assemble a network of equity zones where local multisector groups of nonprofits, service providers, advocates, community members, state agencies, and municipalities can address social factors of health at a local level.