Rhode Island State Senator Gayle Goldin (Democrat, District 3, Providence) an incumbent with nine years of service, today submitted her resignation to the Senate President and the Rhode Island Secretary of State to take a position with the Biden-Harris Administration as Senior Advisor, United States Department of Labor Women’s Bureau.

“Millions of women saw their lives completely disrupted by COVID. But even before COVID, inequities in our public policies meant many women struggle to make ends meet,” said Senator Goldin in a press release. “We have a once in a generation chance to make the economy work for everyone by investing in policies that recognize the value of caregiving and eliminate discriminatory practices. Over the course of my political and professional careers, I’ve focused on changing public policies to address inequity. I’m honored to bring that experience to the US Department of Labor during this critical time for our nation.”

Senator Goldin helped to establish Temporary Caregiver Insurance and pushed to codify Roe v Wade into state law, as well as passing 40 bills she sponsored through the General Assembly.

“Only 59 women have served in the Rhode Island Senate in our state’s history,” wrote Senator Goldin in her resignation letter. “It has been the honor of a lifetime to be one of them.”

Update: Senate President Dominick Ruggerio issued a statement:

“Senator Gayle Goldin leaves an indelible mark on our state, and I thank her for her service. She made Rhode Island a national leader on Paid Family Leave, also known as Temporary Caregiver Insurance. When it was enacted here, Rhode Island was just the third state in the nation to offer workers this important benefit. For many years, Senator Goldin championed the strong pay equity law that was enacted this year. She fought tirelessly on adoption issues and for working families. The Biden administration is gaining a dedicated and passionate public servant. I wish her and her family the very best.”

Last year Senator Goldin challenged Senator Ruggerio for Senate President.

Senator Goldin’s resignation will necessitate a special election to find her replacement.

Update: School teacher Geena Pham announces Senate District 3 run

Update: Almost immediately upon publication of this story, Hilary Levy-Friedman announced her candidacy for the open seat in District 3.

“It is important to have a leader who can help build the bridges we need to address the policy issues facing our state,” said Levy Friedman in a statement. “I am ready to do that work.”

Uprise RI will cover the election.

The picture is Senator Goldin at a recent State House event with spouse Jeff Levy.