Government
Public services and government action
The testimony of DOC Director Coyne-Fague in favor of "restrictive housing" (aka solitary confinement)
"I do not see room for common ground on this bill," said Director Coyne-Fague under questioning from Representative Leonela Felix. "I'm not going to sugarcoat that."
Nancy Green: Why one man’s life matters
"Jason Ng was in a moment deprived of his freedom, declared illegal as he petitioned to remain in the country where he had spent more than half his life. He was delivered to a corrupt system that exists for profit, not justice."
Overwhelming opposition to Rep Morgan's anti-trans anti-education bill during hearing
"If you really care about the safety of children in Rhode Island schools, then you would know that Black and Hispanic youth in Providence are overrepresented in arrest data; that there are social services that [students] need in Providence public schools that funding is not allocated for; that queer and trans youth kill themselves at much higher rates than other youth; and that aiming to limit the ability of educators to have nuanced discussions about contemporary issues that affect young people will only result in dead children."
Race, ethnicity, gender and disability impact statements could change the conversation at the General Assembly
"Assessments, such as fiscal notes and environmental impact reports, are already tools for predicting the impacts of legislation," said Representative Liana Cassar. "H7736 adds a race, ethnicity, gender, and disability impact statement to those resources that we already depend upon."
Bills to allow the taxing of private universities supported by a broad coalition at State house event
“Given that our thriving higher education institutions are generating enormous amounts of income and have vast wealth and property holdings, they should be fully supporting our community through tax contributions, the same as working people and small businesses.," said Representative David Morales.
Governor McKee confused about his authority over DOC when it comes to enforcing Mario's Law
"You know, there are certain things the Governor has authority over and certain things that he don't," said Governor McKee. "The parole board is the individual that certainly has that authority. I've never directed the parole board to release any or to incarcerate anyone."
RI Legislative Black and Latino Caucus spotlights key legislation
"This legislative package will address the struggles and hardships that too many of our residents of color are sadly experiencing, and we believe that these bills will address these and many other concerns and hopes shared by the community of color on a daily basis."
AG Neronha appeals Superior Court decision to release unlawfully incarcerated men to Supreme Court
"The continued detention was violating a law enacted by the General Assembly last year, 'Mario’s Law,' designed to give young offenders serving lengthy sentences a chance to demonstrate that they deserve an early release on parole," said the bill's sponsor, Representative Julie Casimiro.
Speed cameras are not racially unbiased, and need to be considered carefully
Today the Senate Judiciary Committee takes up S2510, a bill from Senator James Seveney that “would authorize the department of transportation, the turnpike and bridge authority and the municipalities of this state to operate automated speed enforcement systems."
Rep Morales tours Providence Community Libraries to promote fully funding ALL state libraries
“Public libraries are the heart of our communities and a key that unlocks opportunity for all people, regardless of background,” said Representative Morales. “In addition to being vital sources of information and a space for learning and recreation, they are public environments where our neighbors from all walks of life come together."