Maddy summaryHB 8531 amends Rhode Island's compulsory attendance laws to give school committees the authority to deny or defer approval of homeschooling plans under specific circumstances. The bill requires schools to implement due diligence interventions, such as consulting with parents and support teams, before referring truant students to family court. It also establishes a formal process for approving alternative learning plans and extended withdrawals, which allow students to take breaks or reduce their coursework while remaining enrolled, particularly considering pandemic-related disruptions. Additionally, the legislation prohibits schools from using truancy as the sole reason for out-of-school suspensions and mandates that private schools and at-home instruction meet specific attendance and curriculum standards.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis Rhode Island House resolution formally honors and celebrates Armed Forces Day on May 16, 2026, to recognize the service of all U.S. military personnel. The bill acknowledges the sacrifices made by active and reserve members and their families while thanking them for protecting the nation's freedoms. It directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to the Rhode Island Adjutant General for official record-keeping. As a commemorative measure, the legislation does not change laws or policies but serves to express state appreciation for the armed forces.
Maddy summaryThis bill is a state-level resolution from Rhode Island that urges the U.S. Congress to pass technical amendments to the federal Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022. It directly affects individuals who were exposed to contaminated water at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune and are seeking compensation for health injuries. The resolution highlights ongoing issues such as claim processing delays and legal uncertainties, calling for changes to improve the fairness and speed of the claims process. The text does not create new laws or funding but serves as a formal recommendation to the federal government to address these administrative challenges.
Maddy summaryThis House Resolution reaffirms the friendship between Rhode Island and Taiwan while encouraging stronger bilateral relations. The bill urges the state government to promote trade by establishing a Taiwan Caucus in the legislature, potentially opening a trade office in Taiwan, and signing an economic cooperation agreement. It also supports Taiwan's participation in international organizations such as the World Health Organization and the International Civil Aviation Organization.
Maddy summaryThis bill designates the second week of May 2026 as "Lung Cancer Action Week" throughout Rhode Island to raise awareness about lung cancer prevention, screening, and treatment. It directly affects Rhode Island residents by encouraging educational activities focused on early detection methods, such as low-dose CT scans, and highlighting risks for specific groups like veterans and non-smokers. The resolution does not change laws or allocate funding but serves as a symbolic declaration to promote public understanding of the disease. Additionally, the bill authorizes the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to the American Lung Association.
Allows members of the retirement system who served in the national guard or reserves and qualify as veterans, to purchase retirement service credits based on their years of service in the National guard or reserves.
Authorizes municipalities to transfer, apply or provide doe an applicable prorate veteran’s property exemption for the remainder of the tax year when a veteran sells property and purchases another property.
Maddy summaryHB 7504 creates tax-advantaged "catastrophe savings accounts" for homeowners to cover disaster-related costs. Taxpayers can deduct contributions (capped at $25,000 for those with standard deductibles or $250,000 for self-insured homeowners) and earn tax-exempt interest. Withdrawals remain tax-free if used for qualified expenses like uncovered repair costs or insurance deductibles after a declared disaster. The program applies only to primary residences with one account allowed per home, effective for 2027 tax years.
Maddy summaryHB 7043 requires liquor license applicants in Westerly to obtain commercial liability insurance covering liquor liability, general liability, and property damage in a minimum amount of $300,000 (or higher if set by town ordinance). This affects businesses seeking retail liquor licenses in Westerly, mandating they provide proof of insurance that names the town as an additional insured and prohibits cancellation without prior notice. The bill adds specific "liquor liability" coverage to Westerly’s existing insurance requirements, which differ from similar rules in Burrillville and North Providence. The law would take effect upon passage but remains pending before the committee.
Maddy summaryThis bill proposes to increase the penalties for several serious motor vehicle offenses, including driving while endangering others and driving under the influence. Specifically, it would raise the maximum prison sentences and fines for cases resulting in death or serious bodily injury, while also extending license suspension periods. The changes apply to drivers convicted of these crimes and would require them to complete alcohol or drug treatment programs at their own expense. The bill aims to strengthen consequences for dangerous driving behaviors that cause severe harm to others.