I want Newport’s seniors to live in a safe, comfortable community and lead active, independent lives. I am committed to passing legislation that works for our seniors, read on for some examples.
In the 2022 session, along with my colleagues:
Eliminated state income taxes on military pensions.
Added $4 million to increase the “circuit breaker” tax credit available to qualifying elderly and disabled residents, raising the maximum credit from about $400 to $600 beginning in tax year 2022.
Raised the amount of annual pension income that is exempt from state taxation from $15,000 to $20,000.
Approved enabling legislation for Newport to create a two-tiered property tax system for residents and non-residents.
Elevated the position of Deputy Secretary of Commerce for Housing to Secretary of Housing, a cabinet-level position, and created a new Department of Housing.
In Previous Sessions:
Recognized as the 2017 Champion for Seniors by the Edward King House.
Sponsored and passed legislation to establish the RI Aging and Disability Resource Center.
Established the “independent provider” model, allowing consumers to hire and manage caregivers of their choice.
Created an $800,000 community senior services grant program for senior centers.
Enacted the Livable Home Modification Grant program to allow aging citizens to stay safely in their homes longer.
Passed the Senior Savings Protection Act that requires the reporting of financial exploitation of persons age 60+.
Supported the program that provides fare-free bus passes to low-income seniors and disabled Rhode Islanders.
Sponsored several bills addressing Alzheimer’s disease and elder abuse.