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SR 968

SENATE RESOLUTION EXPRESSING CONDOLENCES ON THE PASSING OF THE HONORABLE RONALD D. NEWMAN

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Sam Bell and 9 co-sponsors

The Rhode Island Senate honors Ronald D. Newman for lifelong public service, community leadership, and support for agriculture and open-space initiatives.

04/10/2025 Senate read and passed
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SR 968

Summary: Senate Resolution SR 968 (2025) Expressing Condolences on the Passing of Ronald D. Newman

Overview

Senate Resolution 968 is a formal expression of the Rhode Island Senate’s condolences upon the death of Ronald D. Newman, a longtime Richmond resident and public servant. The measure is a non-binding resolution, recognizing Mr. Newman’s life, work, and contributions to the state and local community.

Purpose and Intent

  • To convey the Senate’s deepest condolences to Ronald D. Newman’s family and friends.
  • To acknowledge his dedication to public service, community involvement, and support for agricultural initiatives in Rhode Island.
  • To memorialize his roles as a community leader, husband, brother, uncle, and friend.

Key Provisions and Content

  • The resolution provides a biographical overview of Ronald D. Newman, highlighting:
    • Personal background: resident of Richmond for 64 years; married to Cathleen Newman (nine years at the time of the resolution); known as “Ronnie.”
    • Education: born in Providence; Chariho High School; University of Rhode Island, BA in Communications.
    • Career: 29-year career as Marketing Specialist and Inspector for the Rhode Island Department of Agriculture; retired in 2024. Noted for advancing Rhody Fresh products and support of Farmers Markets; assisted taxpayers with farmland designations to preserve open space.
    • Public service: Democrat who served on the Richmond Town Council during multiple terms in the 1990s, including Council President (post-1994 election) and Council Vice President (post-1996 election); returned to council in 2014 and 2016. Emphasized bipartisanship and service to constituents.
    • Character: described as compassionate, humorous, and public-spirited, with a focus on bringing people together.
  • The resolution directs the Secretary of State to transmit a certified copy to Cathleen Newman and family.

Affected Parties

  • Ronald D. Newman’s family and close relations.
  • The Rhode Island Senate and the broader Rhode Island community, which benefits from a formal tribute to his public service.
  • The Office of the Secretary of State, which will transmit copies of the resolution.

Procedural and Timeline Details

  • Introduced: April 10, 2025.
  • Status: Senate read and passed on April 10, 2025; recommended for immediate consideration the same day.
  • Nature: Resolution (no fiscal impact, no change in law; ceremonial acknowledgment).
  • Next steps: The Secretary of State will transmit the certified resolution to the Newman family.

Potential Impact

  • serves as an official acknowledgment of Ronald D. Newman’s contributions to Richmond, Rhode Island, and state agriculture/public-health initiatives.
  • Provides a formal, ceremonial record of condolences and recognition by the Rhode Island Senate.

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

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