This Week In The General Assembly

Here are the highlights from news and events that took place in the General Assembly for the week ending April 8, 2011. For more information on any of these items visit http://www.rilin.state.ri.us/News/

Bill would bar cell phone use by drivers under age 21
With increased reliance on cell phones leading to a rise in the number of people who use the devices while driving, Sen. Frank Lombardo III (D-Dist. 25, Johnston) has introduced legislation (2011-S 0346) that will prohibit drivers under age 21 from using a non-hands-free mobile telephone while driving on any highway, road or street in the state.
Click here to see news release.

Paw Sox opening day is now Ben Mondor Day
To honor the legacy of late Pawtucket Red Sox owner Ben Mondor, the House and Senate approved resolutions (2011-H 6013, 2011-S 0812) annually declaring opening day of the Pawtucket Red Sox to be “Ben Mondor Day.” Rep. Mary Duffy Messier (D-Dist. 62, Pawtucket, East Providence) sponsored the House measure, while Sen. Donna M. Nesselbush (D-Dist. 15, Pawtucket) sponsored the Senate version.
Click here to see news release.

Senate passes health exchange bill
Legislation submitted by President of the Senate M. Teresa Paiva Weed (D-Dist. 13, Newport, Jamestown) to establish a health benefit exchange in Rhode Island won approval of the Senate. The health benefit exchange, the centerpiece of state implementation of national health care reform, is a marketplace, virtual or actual, through which small businesses and individuals can learn about their health insurance options and available subsidies. The bill (2011-S 0087A) now goes to the House for consideration.
Click here to see news release. 

Senate OKs resolution opposing Weaver’s Cove LNG
The Senate approved a resolution opposing the proposed Weaver’s Cove offshore berth for liquefied natural gas. Introduced by Sen. Walter S. Felag Jr. (D-Dist. 10, Warren, Bristol, Tiverton), the resolution (2011-S 0456) resulted from the work of the Senate Task Force on LNG that was established in January 2010 to research the proposed LNG operation in Mount Hope Bay. It calls on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to deny the necessary approvals for the project.
Click here to see news release.