The Providence Journal (February 8, 2023): "Raptakis and Mezera both said the benefits of linking the increases to inflation would be that businesses paying the minimum wage would know what to expect each year and legislators could stop arguing over it and move on to other topics. Raptakis said fellow legislators have previously said they would consider linking the minimum wage to inflation if it hits $15 an hour. Now that it is set to do that by 2025, he is hoping to get more traction." Read the full article at this link.

“Drunk drivers, especially repeat offenders and especially those whose irresponsible actions cause harm to others, should not be on the road, period,” said Senator Raptakis. “I don’t care how remorseful they seem when they appear before a judge. The punishment for this type of reckless disregard for the welfare of others needs to be much tougher. Until it is, drunks are going to keep getting behind the wheel and causing mayhem on our roads will continue.” To read the complete article click/tap here. The original press release was by Andrew Caruolo, Publicist

General Assembly Passes Child Endangerment Bill
"The General Assembly passed legislation (2022-H 7807, 2022-S 2808) introduced by Rep. Carol Hagan McEntee (D-Dist. 33, South Kingstown, Narragansett) and Sen. Leonidas P. Raptakis (D-Dist. 33, Coventry, East Greenwich, West Greenwich) that would establish felony penalties for guardians convicted of child endangerment. The bill would establish criminal penalties for a wanton or reckless act or omission of a parent, guardian or any other person who has custody or control of a child, where those acts or omissions result in substantial risk of serious bodily injury to the child or sexual abuse of a child in their care. The legislation now heads to the governor’s office for consideration." Read the Full News Release at General Assemble News.

Bill Passed (S 2181 Sub A) to Protect Johnson's Pond in Coventry Heading to Governor's Desk:
"The bill requires dam owners across Rhode Island to get permission to raise or lower water levels, or face a $60,000 fine per day." Read All About It by Jimmy Bentley (Patch Staff Reporter) and View the Live Video on Capital TV.

Assembly Passes Rep. McEntee and Sen. Raptakis’ Child Endangerment Bill

RI STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE – The General Assembly passed Rep. Carol Hagan McEntee and Sen. Leonidas P. Raptakis’ legislation (2022-H 7807, 2022-S 2808) which would establish felony penalties for guardians convicted of child endangerment... “Any parent or guardian who willingly ignores their duty to protect the children in their care deserves to be punished for risking the health and safety of the child. Too often, tragedies occur and the neglectful parent or guardian suffers a slap on the wrist, if any punishment at all. The legislation will also allow law enforcement officers to hold habitual offenders accountable for leaving children unattended in cars for long periods of time, hopefully protecting more kids in the state from abuse, neglect or endangerment,” said Senator Raptakis (D-Dist. 33). For more information, contact: Andrew Caruolo, Publicist, (401)222-6124

From the recent East Greenwich News community stories published on their website.