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H7135In CommitteeRhode Islandhouse

Creates a program through which fire departments and fire districts are notified of locations of registrants of electric and hybrid motor vehicles can register their vehicles with their local fire department or fire district.

Plain English Summary

AI-generated

## Plain-English Summary

This bill creates a voluntary registration program that allows owners of electric and hybrid vehicles to share their vehicle and address information with their local fire department or fire district. The goal is to help firefighters know in advance which homes or locations have electric or hybrid vehicles, so they can better prepare for the unique challenges these vehicles can present during emergencies, such as fires or accidents.

Electric and hybrid vehicles use large battery systems that can behave differently than traditional gas-powered vehicles in a fire or crash — they may require special equipment or techniques to handle safely. By knowing ahead of time where these vehicles are located, firefighters can plan accordingly and respond more effectively and safely when emergencies occur at those addresses.

The program appears to be **opt-in**, meaning vehicle owners choose whether or not to register — it is not a requirement. The bill primarily affects owners of electric and hybrid vehicles in Rhode Island and the fire departments and fire districts that serve their communities. Fire departments would receive the location and registration information of participating vehicle owners, giving them useful data to inform their emergency response planning.

The bill has passed the Rhode Island House and is currently being considered by the Senate. It was created under the authority of the Office of the State Fire Marshal, which oversees fire safety standards and practices across Rhode Island.

This summary is AI-generated for informational purposes. Always refer to the official bill text for legal accuracy.

Sponsors

E
Earl Read(D)
T
Thomas Noret(D)
M
Megan Cotter(D)
S
Stephen Casey(D)
E
Evan Shanley(D)
J
Julie Casimiro(D)
R
Raymond Hull(D)
A
Arthur Corvese(D)
P
Patricia Serpa(D)
C
Christopher Paplauskas(R)

Voting Records

Passage
Mar 26, 2026Passed
Yea: 69Nay: 0

Legislative History

Referred to Senate Special Legislation and Veterans Affairs

Mar 27, 2026

House passed Sub A

Mar 26, 2026

Placed on House Calendar (03/26/2026)

Mar 20, 2026

Committee recommends passage of Sub A

Mar 19, 2026

Proposed Substitute

Mar 13, 2026

Scheduled for consideration (03/19/2026)

Mar 13, 2026

Committee recommended measure be held for further study

Jan 27, 2026

Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration (01/27/2026)

Jan 23, 2026

Introduced, referred to House State Government & Elections

Jan 15, 2026