Calling for Immediate Relief on RI Energy Bills

Earlier this month, Massachusetts ordered its utility companies to provide immediate relief to residents by setting new rates based on the new federal tax cuts. I've been calling on Rhode Island to do the same since January 5th. It's time.

Since my initial request to the RI Public Utilities Commission to reduce rates, we've gained the support of our local legislators in advocating for the state's ratepayers. In late January, the House passed a resolution introduced by Representatives Brian Kennedy and Kenneth Marshall requesting the PUC to reexamine utility rates immediately and not wait until the next proposed increase in September. We expect the Senate to consider a similar resolution, to be introduced by Senator William Conley Jr.

Taking Legal Action in the Fight Against the Opioid Crisis

I am leading a group of 21 cities and towns in filing a suit against the drug manufacturers and wholesale distributors responsible for fueling the opioid epidemic in communities across Rhode Island.

While our families and municipalities bear the burden of this epidemic, billion dollar companies are turning a profit and turning a blind eye to the crisis they caused.

Thank you Barrington, Bristol, Burrillville, Central Falls, Charlestown, Coventry, Cranston, Cumberland, East Providence, Glocester, Johnston, Newport, North Kingstown, North Providence, Pawtucket, Richmond, Smithfield, Warwick, Westerly, West Greenwich and West Warwick for standing with me on this issue.

Connecting with '39 Manufacturers'

With help from the Rhode Island Manufacturers Association and Polaris MEP, I'm visiting a manufacturing company in all 39 cities and towns to help small businesses address short- and long- term roadblocks. We're also spreading the word on:

1. Workforce Training Dollars: Ensuring small businesses can access their fair share of workforce training dollars from the state.

1. Small Business Recycling Program: Raising awareness about Rhode Island Resource Recovery's pilot recycling program for local businesses.

You can follow our 39 Manufacturers Tour on Twitter using #39MFG.