RI State House 2013

Racial profiling happens.  It happens because the racism that was core to the founding of this country permeates the air we breath and our institutional structures.  Changing that takes intention.  Training is good, but it only goes so far.  There must be monitoring and, when that is not enough, legal structures that help change behavior and attitudes.  The Comprehensive Racial Profiling act of 2013 is a step in that direction.  It is a step in building the trust and respect that we would like to see in our community.

There are a cluster of bills that would allow the expungement of one's criminal record under certain circumstances.  These bills are put forward by the Office of the Public Defender.  All the documents were created by them. 

Since 1996 RI's wealthiest citizens have gotten four tax breaks.  The intent of this was to help create jobs and stimulate our economy.  It didn't work.  These tax bills (H-5751 and S-527) raise the income tax rate by 2% for people making over $250,000 a year.  These increased funds will help RI educate the population so there is a good pool of workers for prospective employers and build a stronger infrastructure.  Attached are some resources to help you learn more about this important topic and get involved in the campaign.  Here is a link to the