Statement from Governor Chafee on the passing of Lila Sapinsley

Governor Lincoln D. Chafee said: “I was very saddened to learn of the passing of a dear family friend, Lila Sapinsley. She was a courageous and intelligent public servant who cared deeply for many Rhode Island causes, particularly issues that had an effect on women. In the 1960s, she was a key early supporter of my father. Lila also became my political mentor when she chaired our committee for the 1986 Constitutional Convention. She was the epitome of grace. It was a pleasure to serve with her. Today, Rhode Island lost a woman who dedicated many decades to making our State a better place to live and work.”

Statement from Governor Chafee Regarding an Evaluation of a Traveler from West Africa at Landmark Medical Center

At the request of the Rhode Island Department of Health (HEALTH), a Rhode Islander returning from West Africa 17 days ago was evaluated at Landmark for mild symptoms. The evaluation suggested no presence of any significant disease. Yesterday, after the evaluation, the patient was sent home. The patient was part of the routine monitoring program set up by the Centers for Disease Control and administered by HEALTH.

Governor Lincoln D. Chafee said, “On behalf of the State of Rhode Island, we appreciate the professionalism and service of the staff at Landmark. They were organized and effective. We are pleased that Landmark continues to actively participate in providing health care to our citizens, and that we are seeing collaboration among our hospitals, health-care professionals, first responders, and Rhode Island’s Health Department and Emergency Management Agency.”

Statement from Governor Chafee Regarding Today’s Decision for a Jury Trial in the Pension Lawsuit

Governor Lincoln D. Chafee said, “I am pleased with Judge Taft-Carter’s decision to grant the State’s request for a jury trial in the pension cases. Nevertheless, I continue to hope that settlement discussions will be revisited when the General Assembly returns in January.”

Statement from Governor Chafee Regarding the Results of the Primary

Governor Chafee tonight said: “This primary season was particularly hard fought, and I want to congratulate the candidates for their hard work on the campaign trail. I am supporting all of the Democratic Party’s nominees, and regardless of party affiliation, I look forward to working with the new General Officers on their transition following the November election. I want to ensure that our State continues moving in the right direction by investing in education, infrastructure and workforce development, as well as ensuring the health of our cities and towns – the basic building blocks of a strong economy.”

Statement from Governor Chafee regarding the FY14 Preliminary Closing Statement and FY14 General Fund Surplus

Today Governor Lincoln D. Chafee announced that the FY14 Preliminary Closing Statement, issued by the Department of Administration’s Office of Accounts and Control, shows the state ended fiscal year 2014 with a $68 million General Fund surplus.  General revenue expenditures were $16.1 million less than budgeted.  For each year of the current administration’s term, the state’s general revenue expenditures have been less than budgeted appropriations – $18 million less in 2011, $29 million less in 2012, and $17.8 million less in 2013.  This is the fourth year in a row that the state has seen strong closing surpluses – $64.2 million in FY11, $115.2 million in FY12, and $104.1 million in FY13.  $59.2 million of the surplus funds were accounted for in the FY15 budget as enacted by the General Assembly.

In addition, the FY14 Preliminary Closing Statement shows the budget reserve and cash stabilization account is fully funded with a balance of $177 million.  The Rhode Island Capital Plan Fund available balance is $124.4 million.

“I am very proud of our team of directors and state employees throughout all of state government who deserve significant credit for spending less than their enacted budget,” stated Governor Chafee.  “I am gratified once again that the state has ended each year that I have been Governor with a healthy surplus.  For the last two years, my administration has submitted a balanced budget on time and now, due to the strong fiscal management exhibited by our state agencies, we can announce that this is the fourth straight year in a row with state agencies coming in under budget.

“Recent economic indicators – including the steadily declining unemployment numbers, the increase in median house prices, continued economic growth in Q1 and Q2 and projected growth for Q3 – combined with this latest news of the state’s positive economic performance, show that together we are strengthening Rhode Island’s economy.  I am proud that my administration has set a strong platform for the next governor and the next stage in our state’s recovery.”

Online: http://controller.admin.ri.gov

 

Statement from Governor Chafee Relating to the Passing of Legendary Vermont Senator James Jeffords

Governor Lincoln D. Chafee today said: “On Behalf of the State of Rhode Island, I join the nation, along with Vermont, in mourning the loss of Jim Jeffords. Jim Jeffords made history in the spring of 2001 with his bold move out of the Republication Party. He will be remembered for sending a message to the rest of the country that he was not going to put partisan politics before his work in Washington, D.C. Throughout his distinguished and lengthy career, Jim cared deeply about our environment. He displayed fiscal common sense, and he developed government programs that build a strong middle class. He was also one of the 23 senators to have the courage and foresight to vote against the Iraq War Resolution. He was revered by all who knew him.”

Statement from Governor Chafee regarding the Investigation into the Contract for Concessions at Three Rhode Island State Beaches

Governor Lincoln D. Chafee said today: “Rhode Island State Police officials have briefed me and continue to keep me apprised of the law enforcement agency’s active investigation into the contract for the concessions at three Rhode Island State Beaches.”

According to Governor Chafee’s Director of Communications Faye Zuckerman, state law provides in the Access to Public Records Act (APRA) a clear mandate that state agencies and the Office of the Governor do not release documents or information that might potentially adversely impact an ongoing investigation. The State Police determines what information can and cannot be released, and no state agency or the Governor’s Office will take action during any inquiries.

Statement from Governor Chafee Regarding Unaccompanied Children in the Southwest

Governor Lincoln D. Chafee today said: “The State of Rhode Island has not been officially contacted by any federal entity regarding either services or sheltering unaccompanied children who have crossed the U.S. border in the Southwest. If and when there is a request from the federal government, I will share it publicly.”

Statement From the Office of Governor Chafee Regarding His Support for An Act Authorizing State-Operated Casino Gaming at Newport Grand

Governor Chafee today reiterated his wholehearted support for An Act Relating to State Affairs and Government – Authorizing State-Operated Casino Gaming at Newport Grand Subject to Statewide and Local Voter Approval,H 8294, Substitute A/2, As Amended.

The Governor, who signed the Act, said, “I support casino gaming in Newport, both as a revenue generator and as a bulwark against competition from a potential casino in southeastern Massachusetts.”

The Act authorizes a local and statewide referendum to approve casino gaming in Newport. If approved by the voters, the new legislation provides that certain payments will be made to the City of Newport.

Statement Regarding Rhode Island Commerce Corporation’s Settlement with Certain Defendants in Pending 38 Studios Lawsuit

As Chairman of the Board of the Directors of the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation (RICC), Governor Lincoln D. Chafee announced today that a proposed settlement between the RICC and Antonio Afonso, Jr. and Moses Afonso Ryan Ltd. was filed today in the Rhode Island Superior Court. The proposed settlement is contingent upon approval by the Superior Court in the pending litigation.

The settlement provides for payment to the RICC of the gross sum of $4,370,000. This sum represents the full amount remaining of these settling defendants’ insurance coverage, less a sum of $200,000 set aside to pay the legal fees of these individual settling defendants in the pending action and related lawsuits or proceedings. Although the original coverage limits on this insurance policy were $5,000,000, the insurance policy provides that all defense costs are deducted from the coverage limits. Defense costs to date have been approximately $430,000.

The settling defendants have not acknowledged or admitted any liability or wrongdoing in connection with the matters on which the pending litigation is based. To the contrary, they maintain their original position that they have no liability and committed no wrongdoing. The settlement agreement states that the RICC and the settling defendants are mindful of the inherent uncertainty of litigation, and the financial costs associated with the ongoing prosecution and/or defense of same.

Under these circumstances, the RICC and the above-named settling defendants have agreed that this settlement is reasonable. The RICC’s litigation is still going forward against other defendants who are not included in this settlement.

“The proposed settlement is a step in the right direction, and I hope this is the beginning of a positive resolution to the 38 Studios saga,” Governor Chafee said.

Statement from Governor Lincoln D. Chafee Regarding His Intention to Sign the FY 2015 Budget

Governor Lincoln D. Chafee today said: "The FY 2015 budget passed by the General Assembly, which I intend to sign into law, presents many of my initiatives and some modifications that are encouraging.

"First and foremost, I was pleased that the debate on whether to pay the 38 Studios moral obligation bond ended with the right decision for Rhode Island. I have been unequivocal in my belief that we must honor our debts, however painful. Second, the General Assembly’s FY 2015 budget has a plan to eliminate the toll on the Sakonnet River Bridge by charging a 1-cent gas tax. I have been adamant that absent tolling a reasonable alternative be reached. The reality is we cannot afford to see another bridge completely replaced – at great cost to taxpayers – because of a lack of maintenance.

"I am heartened and commend the legislature for investing in education and our public schools. The budget retains the education aid formula and a tuition freeze for Community College of Rhode Island, Rhode Island College and University of Rhode Island. The $125 million voter bond to enhance URI’s College of Engineering complex will attract and retain talent and is another commendable investment in the future. With the approval of the lease for the Nursing Education Center, which will be headquartered in the former South Street Power Station, the budget buoys my long-term strategy to strengthen the “meds and eds” and grow our Knowledge District. In addition, the $1.5 million for workforce development is a meaningful commitment to worker training and closing the skills gap.

"I was pleased that the voter bonds I had proposed were included in this year’s ballot. The bonds reflect important strategies to grow our economy through improving infrastructure and higher education; enlarging our arts and cultural economy; and protecting Rhode Island’s environment. By maintaining my proposed aid to cities and towns, we continue our work with the municipalities to reverse the damage caused by the previous administration.

"Since taking office, I have proposed reducing the state’s corporate tax rate from 9 percent to 7 percent. I applaud the General Assembly for taking this step through combined reporting to make us more competitive. We need to be mindful that with any budget we put forth, it must be focused on priorities and strategies that send a clear and consistent message far beyond our borders that we honor our commitments, and that the leaders in our state are doing all they can to make Rhode Island a great place to live and work."

Statement Regarding the Budget Announcement by the House Committee on Finance

Governor Lincoln D. Chafee said tonight: “My administration and I will evaluate the budget presented to the House Committee on Finance. I understand that the budgeting process is an exercise in compromise, collaboration and cooperation, and I hope that this budget will move Rhode Island forward.

"Since my first budget, I have proposed and been a proponent of lowering the corporate tax from 9 percent to 7 percent. I applaud the General Assembly for taking this important step to making us more competitive.

"I have been adamant that a reasonable alternative to tolling be reached. The reality is that road and bridge infrastructure needs a consistent funding stream and the money must come from somewhere. Nobody wants to see another bridge completely replaced – at great cost to taxpayers – because of a lack of maintenance. Good transportation infrastructure is closely aligned with building a strong economy. I look forward to examining the plan put forth by the House Committee on Finance.”

Statement from the Office of Governor Chafee Regarding President Obama’s Recent Nominations of Secretary Donovan and Mayor Castro to Key Leadership Posts

Governor Lincoln D. Chafee today said: “I am pleased to put my support behind both of the hard-working public servants President Obama has nominated for key positions in his administration. As Governor of a state that has experienced a number of severe weather events in recent years, we have had to work closely with HUD. We saw firsthand Secretary Donovan’s leadership at creating an effective and efficient federal agency. His staff moved quickly to implement a streamlined and coordinated federal effort in our state. I commend him for successfully steering the agency in the wake of the housing crisis. He helped to stabilize the market and worked tirelessly to keep families in their homes. His many distinguished years of public service speak volumes. If confirmed as Director of the Office of Management and Budget, Secretary Donovan will use his track record of interpreting data to make the right decisions to advance the work of this important office.

;“I have the utmost confidence in San Antonio’s Mayor Julián Castro. He will make a strong HUD Secretary given his practical and on-the-ground experience. During his five years as mayor, the residents of San Antonio have seen Mayor Castro’s leadership move the city in the right direction – specifically in the areas of housing and economic development. His ability to build consensus among key partners will serve him well and continue the work of the Administration’s initiatives in the housing and urban development. I agree with President Obama when he calls him ‘a rising star ready for a national role’.”

Statement from the Office of Governor Chafee Regarding Rhode Island Housing’s Agreement to Reinstate Gayle Corrigan as Deputy Director

Governor Lincoln D. Chafee said today: “I support this resolution, and I am glad the matter has been settled. I think highly of Gayle Corrigan. Her success in Central Falls speaks for itself, and I know that having all of the parties working together toward Rhode Island Housing’s mission is what is best.

“I want to thank Board Chair Andrew Cortes, Executive Director Richard Godfrey and the leadership at Rhode Island Housing for getting this done. From the outset I have raised concerns about the cost of ongoing litigation and the potential for this to distract from the agency’s important work. This will bring closure to a difficult chapter.”

Statement: Governor Chafee Blasts Advocates of Default on 38 Studios Bonds

Governor Chafee today defended the necessity of paying the 38 Studios debt as essential for Rhode Island to continue its recovery from the recession and recoup taxpayers’ money through legal efforts.

Governor Chafee said, “The candidates who can’t understand these two obvious truths are unfit to be Governor. The consequences of default would place Rhode Island as one of the lowest state bond ratings in the nation, and the industry would reduce Rhode Island to ‘junk bond’ status. We have been told in no uncertain terms that the reaction to not paying our debt obligations will be severe and have an adverse impact on Rhode Island. In addition, failure to honor our obligations could have harmful effects on the pending lawsuit.”

Governor Chafee added, “The push by Allan Fung and Ken Block to default is disheartening. We hear from them populist rhetoric that lacks any empirical research or credible support. Common sense dictates that you pay your debts however distasteful.

“From the beginning, I have been the most vocal and strongest opponent of the 38 Studios deal. In the summer of 2010, I was denied access to a Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (now called Commerce RI) meeting where I hoped to speak and state the case on behalf of Rhode Islanders on why this was a bad investment.”

Governor Chafee also pointed out that default may undo all our hard work to recover from 2008’s major economic downturn. With the latest employment metrics showing an increase in the number of employed Rhode Island residents and the largest one month drop of unemployed in 30 years, Rhode Island’s current approach to economic development is paying dividends. Through investments in education, infrastructure and workforce development, we are building our state’s economy and reputation in the right manner and creating a solid foundation for years and decades to come.


“As we look to continue this positive momentum, candidates for Governor should be espousing positions that take into account our state’s long-term future, not the instant gratification of appealing to primary voters.” 

Statement from the Office of Governor Lincoln D. Chafee Regarding the One-Year Anniversary of the Marriage Equality Act

In regard to the one year anniversary of the Marriage Equality Act, Governor Chafee said: “One year ago on May 2, Rhode Island made history with passage of the Marriage Equality Act. In so doing, we sent a remarkable message beyond our borders that Rhode Island is a community that chooses tolerance and freedom over discrimination. In addition, together as a community we furthered the principles of our forefathers who lived in pursuit of the words etched on our glorious State House, ‘to hold forth a lively experiment, that a most flourishing civil state may stand and best be maintained.’

“Today, across Rhode Island same-sex couples enjoy the celebration of a wedding. All loving, productive and valued members of our community are free to exercise their right -- which is a fundamental right -- to marry. We would not be ushering in this one-year milestone if not for devoted Rhode Islanders who fought for decades for basic civil rights. To those forward-thinking members of our community, I say thank you.

“Since before my inauguration, I have been unwavering in my support of marriage for all. It is what Rhode Island has been about from its early beginnings – a tolerant state – of liberty of conscience. Through marriage equality, we proved that our state continues to be a leader in diversity and welcoming to everyone. By having a reputation for tolerance and equality, talented and creative minds from all over the world will be attracted to our cities. I believe new employers will want to put down roots in a state where they can find the brightest and best professionals, who are free of the distraction and worry of inequality, because good business is about treating people equally and having laws that are inclusive.”

Statement from the Office of Governor Chafee Regarding the Resignation of RITBA’s Chairman

In regard to the resignation of David A. Darlington, Chairman of the Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority (RITBA), Governor Lincoln D. Chafee said today, “On behalf of the State of the Rhode Island, I thank David for his many years of public service. He has served Rhode Island with dedication and a strong commitment, and ensured many accomplishments over two decades. His proven leadership skills have brought innovation to the authority. I wish him all the best and further success.”

Statement from the Office of Governor Lincoln D. Chafee Regarding 195 Commission

Governor Chafee said today:  “In regards to the development of the 195 land, we are striving to strike the proper balance between the public’s right to know and the success of a project that is vital to Rhode Island. It is our job to create an environment where we can obtain bids from the best companies to ensure the delivery of successful, quality ventures.

            “I fully support the work of the 195 Commission, a board of responsible, civic-minded professionals. They are attempting to do the right thing for the future of our State."

Statement Regarding Upcoming Trade Mission to Italy and Ireland, April 27-May 1

According to Governor Lincoln D. Chafee’s Director of Communications Faye Zuckerman, “at the request of Commerce RI and as part of its economic development strategy Governor Chafee and Marcel Valois, the executive director of Commerce RI, will be meeting with companies that have expressed an interest in establishing operations here. These companies see Rhode Island as attractive because of its proximity in North America to Europe, as well as location in the busy northeast corridor, and the convenience of TF Green Airport, industrial ports, and rail and highway transportation systems.

“In addition to participating in business meetings with companies that have expressed interest in Rhode Island, they will meet with the Prime Minister of Ireland, Mayor of Rome and other heads of state.

“Donald Sweitzer, chairman of GTECH, who will be in Rome, has offered to join the Governor and Executive Director Valois as a private sector ambassador for the State. Lottomatica/GTECH has established business relationships in Italy and Ireland.” 

Below is a general travel itinerary:
•Sunday, April 27: Arrives in Rome, Italy.
•Monday, April 28: Business meetings in Rome and Naples area.
•Tuesday, April 29: Travel to northern Italy for business meetings. 
•Wednesday, April 30: Travel to Ireland and attend business meetings. 
•Thursday, May 1: Business meetings in Ireland and return to United States.

Statement from the Office of Governor Lincoln D. Chafee

Governor Chafee said: “I was saddened to learn of the passing of Nuala Pell, the devoted wife of Senator Claiborne Pell, a loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother and well-respected advocate for education, women’s health issues and the arts. 

Nuala Pell was ever present on the political campaign trail and her opinion was valued by many. Her passion for scholarship and the humanities led to a decades-long advocacy of public service and philanthropy.

My sincere condolences to the Pell Family as we celebrate the many accomplishments of this remarkably talented and caring woman who has left her mark throughout our state.”