Sen. Roger Picard

Maddy summarySB 2052 proposes to repeal the Rhode Island minimum tax that corporations must pay regardless of their income level. Under the current law, every corporation is required to pay at least $450 annually, a fee that would be eliminated if this bill passes. The legislation also includes a provision to lower the minimum tax threshold from $450 to $400 for tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2017, though the primary action is the removal of the minimum tax requirement itself. This change directly affects all corporations operating in the state by removing the mandatory minimum payment obligation.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution expresses the state's condolences for the passing of Ronald R. Champagne, a former Cumberland police officer and community leader. The bill honors his life by acknowledging his 22 years of public service and his long-standing involvement in local civic organizations. It directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to Champagne's widow, Sally Champagne, as a formal gesture of respect.

Maddy summaryThis bill extends teacher certifications for three or five years without fees or penalties for educators who were already certified as of July 1, 2024. It also waives application and exam fees for new teacher certifications during the period from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2027. Additionally, the law allows teachers with at least three years of experience to earn additional certifications by taking exams or completing coursework, and it directs the state education department to create more flexible pathways for obtaining teacher and administrator credentials.

Requires an appropriation of an additional five percent (5%) of the assessed value of all low-income housing as part of the payment in lieu of taxes program to the municipality where the property is located beginning in fiscal year 2026.

Amends the constitution to guarantee Rhode Island residents with equal opportunity to receive an education that is adequate, equitable and meaningful and provides judicial enforcement of this provision.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates May 2024 as "Older Americans Month" in Rhode Island to honor the contributions of seniors. The bill directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to the Director of the Office of Healthy Living. It serves as a commemorative gesture rather than establishing new laws or funding requirements.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates May 12 through May 18, 2024, as "National Hospital Week" in Rhode Island to honor the contributions of healthcare professionals and facilities. The measure aims to raise public awareness about the vital role hospitals play in the state's economy and community health, noting that local hospitals generate thousands of jobs and provide extensive medical services. It formally acknowledges the dedication of nurses, doctors, and staff who deliver essential care to residents. Additionally, the resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to the President of the Hospital Association of Rhode Island.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates May 2024 as "Rhode Island Pharmacy Advocacy Month" to honor the contributions of pharmacy professionals to public health. The bill encourages citizens, healthcare workers, and organizations to participate in events that highlight the vital role pharmacists play in medication therapy and patient care. It also directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to the Rhode Island Pharmacists Association and the state Board of Pharmacy.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution expresses condolences for the passing of Gregory A. Jones, a retired firefighter and dedicated public servant from Cumberland, Rhode Island. The document honors his life by highlighting his 31-year career as an engineer for Verizon and his subsequent service as a firefighter with the Cumberland Fire District until his retirement in 2022. It also acknowledges his extensive volunteer work with organizations like the Rhode Island Special Olympics and his roles within various firefighters' unions. Finally, the resolution authorizes the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the text to Jones' surviving family members, including his mother, children, and siblings.