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HR 5064

HOUSE RESOLUTION EXPRESSING CONDOLENCES ON THE PASSING OF THE HONORABLE JOSEPH MICHAEL DOWNEY

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Edith Ajello and 9 co-sponsors

Rhode Island House expresses condolences to Joseph M. Downey's family, honoring his decades of public service as a state employee, labor leader, and community volunteer.

01/15/2025 House read and passed
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 5064

Summary of HR 5064 — House Resolution Expressing Condolences on the Passing of the Honorable Joseph Michael Downey

Purpose and intent

  • HR 5064 is a House of Representatives resolution in the State of Rhode Island expressing condolences on the death of Joseph Michael Downey (also known as Michael Downey).
  • The resolution serves as a formal commemoration of Downey’s life and public service and directs the Secretary of State to transmit a certified copy to his widow, Claudette Downey.

What the bill does

  • States condolences from the Rhode Island House to the Downey family.
  • Acknowledges Downey’s biography, career, and community service.
  • Authorizes the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to Mrs. Claudette Downey.

Background on Joseph Michael Downey (as presented in the bill)

  • Birth and family: Born in Providence, son of James Downey, Jr., and Patricia Downey; married to Claudette Downey for nearly fifty years.
  • Education and trade: Graduate of LaSalle Academy; earned a Master Plumbing License after a five-year apprenticeship.
  • Professional career: Worked as a Rhode Island state plumber for 37 years, culminating as Chief Plumbing Investigator.
  • Labor leadership: Prominent labor advocate; President of Local 528 (representing University of Rhode Island workers); President of AFSCME Council 94 since 2005, leading more than 10,000 state employees.
  • Civic involvement: Elected to Charlestown Town Council; Chair of the Tax Assessment Review Board; served on the URI Affirmative Action Committee, RI AFL-CIO Executive Board, RI Retirement Board, RI Institute of Labor Studies, and the Veterans Memorial Museum in Woonsocket.
  • Personal interests: Sports fan (Red Sox, Celtics, Patriots); enjoyed time at the Breachway and local coffee shops; assisted in St. Mary’s/St. James education programs.
  • Family survivors: Wife Claudette; children Corey, Faith, and Michael; daughters-in-law Megan and Marissa; son-in-law Manuel; grandchildren Grace, Camden, Mason, Lily, Connor, Brennan, Leonora, Warren, and Nolan J. Michael.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Introduced: January 15, 2025.
  • Referred to: House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
  • Status: Reported as “House read and passed” on January 15, 2025 (indicating passage in the House on that date).
  • Related actions: Companion bills exist in other chambers (S 2743; S 891) and in another House version (HR 1768).

Sponsors

  • Primary sponsor: Nick LaLota.
  • Additional sponsors: Michael Lawler (cosponsor), Andrew R. Garbarino (cosponsor), Doris O. Matsui (cosponsor), Yvette D. Clarke (cosponsor), Frank J. Mrvan (cosponsor), Laura Gillen (cosponsor).

Impact and scope

  • This is a ceremonial, non-fiscal resolution. Its effect is symbolic, recognizing Downey’s service as a state employee, labor leader, and community volunteer.
  • It does not enact policy changes or create new programs, but it publicly honors a notable Rhode Island public servant and may be used to reflect the state’s appreciation for his contributions.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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