Maddy summaryHB 7610 requires Rhode Island's Public Utilities Commission (PUC) and Division of Public Utilities and Carriers (DPUC) to produce a comprehensive study by April 30, 2027, aimed at lowering energy rates for consumers. The study must compare Rhode Island's electric and gas rates with other states, review all state energy programs that increase costs, and identify policies or practices that could be changed to reduce bills. The PUC will use $100,000 in funding to hire consultants and develop a research plan, including recommendations for transparent "energy notes" on future legislation affecting costs. This bill directly affects Rhode Island residents who pay energy bills by directing state agencies to investigate cost-reduction strategies.
Sponsored bills
Requires any public utility company that needs to close any state or municipal roadway for work to provide notice to all residential and business property owners located within 1,000 ft of the closed highway at least 48 hrs before the road closure.
Maddy summaryHB 8018 requires that all new residential buildings must include at least two standard exterior doors serving as exit routes for emergencies. This applies directly to builders and developers constructing new homes, apartments, or other residential properties. The bill amends the state building code to mandate this safety feature, ensuring multiple exit options during fire or evacuation scenarios. It does not affect existing buildings or renovations, and the requirement would take effect upon passage.
Maddy summaryThis bill officially designates April 2026 as Alcohol Awareness Month in Rhode Island to highlight the dangers of alcohol abuse and promote public education. The resolution cites statistics on alcohol-related health risks, economic costs, and emergency room visits to underscore the need for community outreach. It directs the Secretary of State to send copies of the proclamation to the Governor and various state health officials. The measure is a symbolic gesture intended to encourage participation in existing awareness initiatives rather than implementing new laws or policies.
Maddy summaryThis bill requires retailers to keep money from gift certificate sales in a separate account until customers use or redeem the certificates. The rule applies to businesses selling gift certificates for their own products but exempts certificates given out for free through loyalty or promotional programs. Once a certificate is fully redeemed, the retailer can move the corresponding funds back to their regular business account. The measure aims to protect consumer funds by ensuring they are set aside before being spent.
Establishes the “Decentralized Autonomous Organization (DAO) Act” that would position Rhode Island as a forward-thinking leader in blockchain innovation by giving DAOs clear legal status as limited liability companies.
Establishes minimum limitations standards for structural property damage claims, and voids any policy provision, endorsement, condition, limitation, agreement, or claim practice that shortens those standards.
Requires that any private short-term disability insurance (STDI) carrier that bids to provide coverage to Rhode Island state employees must cover all eligible employees, regardless of age.
Provides any police report involving a railroad fatality and all communications between railroad employees not be made public. Additionally, it makes a violation of this section a misdemeanor.
Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution that congratulates AHEPA Chapter 106 "Sophocles" of Providence on its 100th anniversary. The resolution recognizes the chapter's century-long history of service to the Greek-American community in Rhode Island, including its founding in 1926, its scholarship programs, and its partnerships with local institutions. The text authorizes the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to the chapter's president, Mr. George Coclin. This is a commemorative measure that honors the organization's legacy without proposing new laws or policies.