Clarifies that a magistrate or sentencing judge sitting in a court with jurisdiction over motor vehicle offenses has the discretion to grant a conditional hardship license for a first-time offender upon request.
Maddy summarySB 2718 increases fines for speeding violations in residential neighborhoods and school zones. It directly affects drivers who exceed speed limits in these specific areas. The bill establishes higher penalty amounts for speeding offenses occurring near homes or schools, aiming to enhance safety in vulnerable locations. This change modifies existing traffic penalty structures without altering speed limit laws themselves. The bill was introduced to the Senate Judiciary Committee on February 27, 2026.
Requires that a conspicuous display be a visual illustration showing each component of the utility bill and the cost associated with each component of said bill, subject to the approval of the division of public utilities (DPUC).
Raises the amount of life insurance the state provides at no charge to Rhode Island National Guard members called up for federal duty to five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000).
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates June 2026 as "Pride Month" in Rhode Island to honor the history and contributions of the LGBTQIA+ community. The measure does not alter any laws or create new legal requirements but serves as a symbolic gesture of appreciation and support. By recognizing this time of year, the Senate aims to celebrate the culture and achievements of LGBTQIA+ Rhode Islanders while reaffirming the state's commitment to equity. The resolution authorizes the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to Rhode Island Pride to mark the occasion.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution expresses the state's deepest condolences for the passing of Joseph Falvo, a longtime public servant from Johnston. The document honors his life by detailing his extensive career in local government, including his service on the Johnston Town Council and as Sealer of Weights and Measures, as well as his military service and private sector work. It also acknowledges his personal life, noting his faith, family, and hobbies, before directing the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to his children.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates June 2026 as "Portuguese American Heritage Month" in Rhode Island to honor the state's Portuguese American community. The bill directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to state officials, the Portuguese government, and local organizations. While it does not alter laws or funding, it serves as a formal acknowledgment of the cultural, economic, and historical contributions of Portuguese Americans to the state.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates June 4, 2026, as "Cox Impact Day" in Rhode Island to recognize Cox Communications for its charitable contributions. The bill highlights the company's history of funding STEM programs and community initiatives through Cox Charities, which has distributed over $11 million in grants to local organizations. It specifically acknowledges the 2026 recipients of these grants, including groups focused on youth education, mentorship, and environmental sustainability. The resolution serves as a formal expression of appreciation from the state legislature and does not alter any laws or policies.
Funds the state crime victim compensation program through an additional one dollar ($1.00) fine on traffic violations, exclusive of violations related to the parking of vehicles.
Provides that when two or more individuals associate to accomplish the crime of shoplifting, that they would be deemed to be associated for the particular purpose of shoplifting and be guilty of a felony.
