Mattiello Sends House Home: News Sources

PROVIDENCE, RI — House Speaker Nicholas Mattiello sent the House home early for the July 4 weekend. In an e-mail to the state representatives, he explained, "I have made a commitment to the public to conduct our legislative session at normal hours in a clear and transparent manner. Despite the House, the Senate and the Governor reaching agreement on a responsible and balanced state budget, I learned today that the Senate was likely to amend the budget on this, the last legislative day. This would have resulted in a long and unproductive night for the Members and the public. I urge the Senate to honor the original agreement and pass the state budget."

Mattiello closed by wishing everyone a safe and happy Independence Day and said he would be "in touch" soon.

According to the Legislative Press Bureau, the Senate continued working and passing legislation for the governor's signature. But some bills were amended, and they cannot be sent to the governor until the House considers the changes.

The Speaker's move was a protest over the Senate's plan to amend the House budget and is related to the car tax. But the adjournment leaves some confusion over what happens next. Senate President Dominick Ruggerio and Mattiello traded press releases, and Mattiello gave a press conference. Friday was supposed to be the last day of the legislative session. Mattiello could call the House back to finish the work, but he has said he will not do so.

Around 9 p.m., Senate President Ruggerio called on Mattiello to call the House back.

“The Senate repeatedly expressed its concern to Speaker Mattiello regarding the sustainability of the car tax phase out. He chose to disregard the concerns of the members of this chamber, and sent us the budget without any concessions on that issue. As the leader of a chamber filled with public servants dedicated to doing what is best for the people of Rhode Island, it is my responsibility to ensure that their concerns are heard.

“Speaker Mattiello does not dictate to the Senate which bills we are permitted to amend. The Senate will thoroughly review the language of every piece of legislation that comes before us and pass the language we deem most appropriate on behalf of our constituents, whether that bill is paid sick leave, domestic violence legislation, or the budget.

“I encourage Speaker Mattiello to reconvene the House as soon as possible to consider the state budget as passed by the Senate, including the minor but very important taxpayer protections that have been added.”

The municipal association lobbyists for the cities and town have asked for a clarification about the impacts. It would appear the car tax phase-out and the free CCRI tuition programs are scuttled unless a budget can be passed.