Progressive Charlestown: Message from Rep. Tina Spears

Update from RI State Representative Tina Spears

It has been a busy month at the Statehouse! District 36 residents and advocates are actively participating, and I am encouraged to see residents voice their opinions and participate in hearings. Our needs won't be addressed in the legislative process unless we raise our voices. Civic engagement is crucial for a healthy democracy, and it's heartening to see people taking an interest in their government! Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to share your perspectives -- it makes a real difference!

Let's continue to build stronger and more inclusive communities.

Let's move forward together,

Legislative Update

Shoreline Access Bill H5174: A hearing was held on March 28th and the bill will be voted on at committee on April 4th in the House Lounge at the Rise (approximately 4:30-5:00 pm). The hearing was well attended and the House remains committed to getting this legislation passed. Stay tuned to advocate and attend the Senate hearings on this bill!

> See the legislation here

> See the committee agenda here

Bottle / Nip Bill H5502 / H6054: A hearing was held on March 23rd and this bill is being held for further study. There remains strong interest to pass these bills, and I am actively working with fellow legislators to advocate for compromises for businesses and ensure protection of our environment. Stay tuned!

Housing Bills: Here is a summary of the Housing Bills. I have heard a great deal from residents and community advocates on this important issue, and I am working with the sponsors of these bills to incorporate modifications that will support our District to balance smart development, environmental concerns and infrastructure limitations.

To read a recap of legislation I am working on with colleagues in the House of Representatives, view this list of bills from the House Legislation Tracker.

National Medal of Honor Day
Dedication and Remembrance

The Medal of Honor is the highest military award that can be given to a member of the United States Armed Forces. It is awarded for acts of valor above and beyond the call of duty, often at great personal risk and sacrifice. Each of the individuals have a story of heroism and courage that deserves to be recognized and remembered.

The families of Medal of Honor recipients have shared in their loved one's heroism and have made their own sacrifices. Their unwavering support and dedication to their service members deserves recognition and gratitude as was demonstrated during the National Medal of Honor Day Dedication and Remembrance Ceremony at South Kingstown High School on March 25th. It was a honor to attend, and if you missed it you can watch the ceremony here.

As a society, it is our duty to honor and remember the service and sacrifices of our Medal of Honor recipients and those soldiers who are missing in action. We should strive to learn from their examples and uphold the values of bravery, honor, and selflessness that they embody. We owe them a debt of gratitude that can never be fully repaid.

April Community Meeting

Our first meeting went so well that we’re scheduling more! At every meeting we'll provide an update on issues at the State House and a chance to ask questions.