Charlene M. Lima

Political Party: Democratic

District: District 14

Current Position: Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives

Charlene M. Lima was born on August 18, 1953, and has devoted her career to public service and education. She represents District 14 in the Rhode Island House of Representatives, having been first elected in November 1992. Her Portuguese heritage traces back to the Azores.

Throughout her tenure in the legislature, Lima has championed causes related to education, veterans' rights, consumer protection, and fiscal responsibility. She is known for taking independent stances on issues, even when at odds with her own party or activist groups.

Education

Lima graduated from St. Bartholomew's Grammar School and Classical High School. She earned her degree from the University of Rhode Island and became a certified educator.

Political Experience

Legislative Service:
- Member of the Rhode Island General Assembly since 1993
- Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives
- Member of the House Small Business Committee

Education and Early Career:
Before entering the legislature, Lima worked as a math teacher at Samuel W. Bridman Middle School in the Providence School Department for 28 years and served as a truant officer. She was a member of the American Federation of Teachers and the Providence Teacher's Union.

Notable Legislative Achievements:
- Original sponsor of legislation to eliminate the car tax
- Authored and passed one of Rhode Island's largest consumer protection laws to combat contractor fraud
- Wrote and passed a law requiring banks to maintain foreclosed properties and prevent blight
- Sponsor of the first "Missing Veterans of War Resolution" and the "Bring the Boys Home Resolution"
- Fully eliminated state income tax on military pensions
- Authored a "Stolen Valor" law making it a crime to fraudulently claim military service
- Introduced legislation creating custody procedures for pets during divorce or separation proceedings

Committee and Task Force Service:
- Rhode Island Attorney General's Juvenile Justice Task Force
- Secretary of State's Panel for Election Law Reform
- District Representative Committee
- Rhode Island Society to Prevent Blindness
- Women's Auxiliary of the St. Mary's Feast Society