Government
Public services and government action

Attorney General files lawsuit against notorious Rhode Island slumlord
Allegations include lead poisoning of children, persistent rodent infestations, deterioration of the building structure, cracking walls and windows, and intermittent loss of water and heat, and improperly charged and overcharged late fees on tenants.

Members of House Sex Work Commission critical of both process and final report
"AmnestyPVD supports the conclusion of the committee that sex work should be decriminalized, however, we ask that a new commission with locally-affected persons be convened in 2024..."

Advocates push for a series of bills embracing peace and opposing war
The Just Peace RI coalition championed five pieces of legislation in support of a more peaceful world.

Contentious Confirmation: Carol O'Donnell's RI Commerce Corporation Nomination Ignites Debate
Carol O'Donnell's nomination to the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation stirred controversy. Criticisms from her past as a landlord, lobbyist, and fire district chair clashedI am with commendations for her industry expertise. Now, the Senate is poised to confirm her, but not without raising serious questions.

Urgent Call to Action: RI Senator Tiara Mack's Rallying Cry for Housing Justice
Senator Tiara Mack is demanding housing justice in Rhode Island's General Assembly. In the midst of a housing crisis, she's leading advocates for affordable housing in a statewide call to action. But will the Assembly step up and take notice?

Public Pushback on Senate President's RIPTA Overhaul: Democracy or Dictatorship?
Controversy swirls as Senate President Dominick Ruggerio pushes two Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) bills through the Senate Finance Committee in record time. Despite overwhelming public objection to the legislation, both bills are expected to be voted on next week, raising questions about government transparency and public influence.

Street Voices: Surviving the Crises of Drug Use and Homelessness
Anna, James, and Jennifer open up about their struggles and work towards addressing the lethal illicit drug supply and housing crisis. Their experiences with substance use and homelessness shed light on a system that often fails its most vulnerable members.

Tackling the Housing Crisis: Secretary Stefan Pryor Unveils Current State and Planned Actions
Presenting to the Providence City Council, Secretary Stefan Pryor outlined the stark reality of Rhode Island's housing and homelessness crisis. Amid mounting challenges, Pryor emphasized collaborative efforts in tackling the issue, and offered hope through initiatives to increase affordable housing and shelter capacity.

RI Commission Proposes Sweeping Reforms in Laws Affecting Sex Workers
The Rhode Island House Commission on Sex Work issued a report detailing significant legislative recommendations. The goal is to challenge stigmatization and structural inequalities that disproportionately affect women, transgender individuals, and people of color.

Courthouse Blockade: A Bold Step for Bail Reform in Rhode Island
Six people blocked a prison bus from leaving the 6th District Courthouse on Dorrance Street on Thursday night in support of BAIL ON 32, legislation that would mandate the courts levy reasonable bail on accused probation violators. No arrests were made.

