Sen. Frank Ciccone

Maddy summarySB 2228 modifies Rhode Island's personal income tax code to adjust how social security income is treated for tax purposes. Starting with tax years beginning January 1, 2027, the bill allows a modification to federal adjusted gross income specifically for all social security benefits received by residents. This change directly affects Rhode Island residents who receive Social Security payments, as it alters how those benefits are counted toward their state taxable income. The bill does not change the federal tax treatment of social security benefits but adjusts the state-level calculation. The provision is part of broader tax code amendments but focuses specifically on social security income for state tax computation.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires that all contracts for capital improvements at healthcare facilities comply with existing state laws ensuring contractors and subcontractors pay their employees. It directly affects construction companies, subcontractors, and healthcare facilities undertaking projects like construction, renovation, or demolition. The key provision mandates adherence to current wage and payment obligations without creating new rules, simply enforcing existing requirements for these specific projects. This measure ensures that workers on healthcare facility projects receive proper compensation as already required by law.

Maddy summarySB 2433 establishes a presumption that school-age child care programs operating within RIDE-certified school buildings (public, charter, or approved non-public K-12 schools) automatically meet facility-based quality rating requirements. This means physical space features like room layout, furnishings, and storage - typically assessed under tools like SACERS - will be treated as compliant or neutral in quality ratings, without lowering a program’s score. The bill does not alter existing licensing, health, safety, or enforcement standards; it only streamlines the rating process for programs in certified school buildings. This change applies to all school-age child care programs licensed under Title 42, Chapter 12.5.

Maddy summarySB 2508 allows caterers with a Class P license to purchase alcoholic beverages from either retail or wholesale businesses within Rhode Island, expanding their previous purchasing options. This directly affects licensed caterers (who pay a $500 annual fee) by giving them flexibility in where they source alcohol, though wholesalers may set minimum order requirements or refuse orders. The bill also clarifies that caterers may deliver and remove alcohol at events, or leave it at a host's residence only if the caterer maintains full control of the alcohol during the event. Key operational rules remain, including ID checks for under-30 guests, limits on drink servings, and a maximum 5-hour service period per event.

Allows the holder of a manufacturer’s license to sell one-sixth of a barrel keg or any otherwise permitted vessel containing no more than the amount of malt beverage allowed.

Permits a nurse who has the appropriate knowledge, credentials and clinical competency, to provide home services foot care, which includes routine foot and nail care, as well as implementing a plan of care that includes hygiene and fingernails.

Establishes a seven (7) member public-private partnership infrastructure oversight commission to approve all requests for proposals submitted for public-private partnership construction of qualified facilities.

Allows for the holder of a manufacturer’s license to be able to sell one one-sixth (1/6) barrel keg of malt beverage, produced on the premises, per day.

Requires public auctions by any city or town of real estate or an interest therein to only be done in person and not by electronic or remote procedures unless authorized by court order.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution designates April 28, 2026, as "Arts Day in Rhode Island" to highlight the importance of arts and culture within the state. The bill encourages all residents to reflect on how creative activities enrich their lives and support local communities. It does not create new laws or funding but serves as a formal proclamation to recognize the economic and social benefits of the arts sector. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send copies of the document to the Rhode Island State Council on the Arts and the Rhode Island Coalition for the Arts.