The Rhode Island General Assembly began its 2025 legislative session with a flurry of activity, including the introduction of Governor Daniel McKee’s fiscal year 2026 state budget proposal and his State of the State address.
House Finance Committee Chairman Marvin L. Abney introduced the governor’s budget proposal (2025-H 5076) in the House. The House and Senate finance committees will analyze the proposal over the coming months.
On Tuesday, both chambers met in grand committee to hear Gov. McKee’s State of the State address. The governor outlined plans to raise per-capita income, address the homelessness crisis, replace the Washington Bridge, and propose a ban on assault weapons.
“We have a clear vision for Rhode Island’s future,” McKee said during his address.
Governor McKee unveils FY 2026 Budget with focus on education and workforce development
In response to the state’s ongoing homelessness crisis, Senate leadership, including President Dominick J. Ruggerio, joined many of their colleagues in calling on Gov. McKee to declare a state of emergency.
“Immediate action is needed to address this pressing issue,” Ruggerio stated.
Rep. Teresa A. Tanzi and Sen. Tiara T. Mack had previously circulated a similar petition among General Assembly members.
Aquidneck Island legislators join members of General Assembly calling on Governor to declare homelessness a public health emergency
Several lawmakers introduced legislation aimed at addressing economic concerns. Rep. David A. Bennett proposed a bill (2025-H 5029) to increase Rhode Island’s minimum wage from $15 to $20 over five years.
“This gradual increase will help workers keep pace with the rising cost of living,” Bennett said.
Rep. Megan L. Cotter introduced legislation (2025-H 5018) to cap profits for utilities distributing electricity and natural gas in Rhode Island.
“We must prevent utilities from making hefty profits at the expense of everyday Rhode Islanders struggling with rising utility bills,” Cotter explained.
Sen. Ryan W. Pearson reintroduced legislation requiring the Office of the Health Insurance Commissioner to review Medicaid rates for primary care services.
In a move to address emerging technologies, Sen. Victoria Gu will chair the newly created Senate Committee on Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies for the 2025-2026 legislative session.
“This committee will play a crucial role in shaping policies around AI and other cutting-edge technologies,” Gu said.
Three special House commissions met with leaders of the Rhode Island Public Expenditure Council to review a report on housing policy in the state. The commissions are studying housing affordability, the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, and various aspects of land use and development.
Rep. Karen Alzate and Sen. Melissa Murray announced plans to introduce a “millionaires’ tax” that would create an additional personal income surtax on taxable income over $1 million.
“This tax would help fund education, infrastructure rehabilitation, and crucial programs for vulnerable Rhode Islanders,” Alzate stated.
Legislators also rallied in support of legislation (2025-H 5010) introduced by Rep. David Morales to establish the use of equity impact statements in the General Assembly.
“Equity impact statements will help us measure how legislation could affect historical imbalances and disparities in our state,” Morales explained.
As the legislative session progresses, lawmakers will continue to debate and refine these proposals, with the budget process expected to be a central focus in the coming months.