Governor Lincoln Chafee Orders U.S. and State Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff Following the Tragedy in Newtown, CT

As a mark of respect for the victims of the senseless acts of violence perpetrated on December 14, 2012 in Newtown, Connecticut, President Barack Obama has ordered that the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions until sunset, December 18, 2012.

Accordingly, Governor Lincoln D. Chafee has ordered that, in addition to the flag of the United States, the Rhode Island flag fly at half-staff on all public buildings in the State of Rhode Island until that time.

Statement from Governor Lincoln D. Chafee

The word “tragedy” is used often these days, but it is difficult to think of a more truly tragic turn of events than what occurred in Newtown, Connecticut earlier today.

On behalf of all the people of Rhode Island, our most sincere condolences and sympathy are with the families of the victims of this horrendous crime.

Colonel O’Donnell of the State Police and Secretary Costantino of the Office of Health and Human Services have reached out to Connecticut public safety officials to offer the full support and services of the State of Rhode Island. We will assist in any way possible to help the people of our neighboring state during this unthinkably trying time.

We are taught, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” As the families of today’s many innocent victims mourn this senseless loss of life, the thoughts and prayers of the people of Rhode Island and the people of our nation are with them – and will remain with them. It is my hope that they are able to find some small measure of comfort in the many fine memories of their loved ones that were made before this terrible day.

Statement from Governor Lincoln D. Chafee Regarding the Passing of the Honorable Joseph R. Weisberger

I was saddened to learn of the passing of retired Supreme Court Chief Justice Joseph Weisberger, a legendary jurist whose legacy looms large in the judicial history of our great state.

Justice Weisberger was so widely admired and respected because he embodied all that the state’s highest court should be: deliberative, fair, scholarly, and seeking always and above all else clarity, justice, and truth.

Throughout his long life, Justice Weisberger demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to service. He interrupted his studies to serve as a Lieutenant Commander in the Navy during World War II and served in the Rhode Island Senate before his appointment to the Rhode Island Superior Court in 1956. In 1978, he rose to the Rhode Island Supreme Court, serving as Acting Chief Justice from 1993 to 1995, and finally as Chief Justice from 1995 until his retirement in 2001.

Justice Weisberger’s accomplished judicial career was marked by an expansive wisdom and an enduring love for the law. Indeed, even after retiring, he remained active in assisting the Court on which he served admirably for more than two decades.

Justice Weisberger shaped the lives of Rhode Islanders in countless ways. Today is a day not only to mourn his passing, but to celebrate the remarkable legacy that will live on long after him.

Statement from Governor Lincoln D. Chafee

I have confidence in the state’s legal case. But a strong case does not guarantee a win. I am therefore reluctant to rely exclusively on the uncertain outcomes of litigation. The most prudent approach is to continue to aggressively press the state’s case in court while, at the same time, exploring reasonable settlement options that could yield favorable alternatives in the best interest of the taxpayers. Engaging in settlement discussions is a near-universal practice during high-stakes litigation.

Some have said that now is not the time for negotiation. I disagree. The state has leverage only so long as there is still uncertainty as to the outcome of this case – a time period that grows shorter with each passing day.

I have great respect for the judicial system. Indeed, thoughtful discussions and settlement negotiations are an integral part of that system. All or nothing is not the only course, as any judge will tell you.

I have been disappointed that state leaders in a position to engage in reasonable discussions have chosen not to do so. There is no harm in talking, but the consequences of failing to talk could be tremendous, in a case where a loss – in the Treasurer’s own words – would be a “fiscal calamity.” It is my continued hope that other state leaders will join me in working to find common ground to protect the interests of Rhode Island taxpayers and the retirement security of all public employees.

A Thanksgiving Message from Governor Chafee

Fellow Rhode Islanders,

As we prepare to gather with friends and family to celebrate Thanksgiving, it is my hope that the holiday will give all of us occasion to reflect on our many blessings and to commit ourselves to creating a better world for our children and the generations to come.

Let us focus not on what divides us, but what unites us; let us work toward a more civil public discourse, with a tone of tolerance and respect; let us seek a more peaceful world built upon common bonds, common interests, and common kindness.

Let us resolve, in the words of Abraham Lincoln, who formally established a national day of Thanksgiving in 1863, to follow the “better angels of our nature.”

Despite the difficulty that has marked recent years, we, as a state, have much to be grateful for and many reasons to feel optimism for the months and years to come. I wish you and your loved ones a safe, peaceful, and happy Thanksgiving.

Lincoln D. Chafee

Governor

Hurricane Sandy: Rhode Island's Readiness, Response, and Recovery Efforts

In the wake of Hurricane Sandy, Governor Chafee releases a new web video thanking all those involved in helping get Rhode Island through the storm safe and secure.

http://youtu.be/4jSHN7VAzEk

Statement from Governor Lincoln D. Chafee

I am announcing today my intention to appoint George Caruolo as Chairman of the Rhode Island Board of Education, pending confirmation by the Rhode Island Senate.

During his time as a state representative, George earned a reputation as an active participant in our state’s efforts to improve public education. More recently, I have witnessed first-hand George’s energy, knowledge, and experience as a member of the Board of Regents. He is a tireless advocate for our state’s students. George’s four children went through the Rhode Island public school system, and he is committed to joining me in working to make Rhode Island’s schools, colleges, and universities the finest in the nation.

The consolidation of the Boards of Regents and Governors, passed by the legislature in June, affects an extraordinarily important sector of Rhode Island – our education system. A great deal of work needs to be done before the reconstituted Board is up and running well.

In my twenty years of public service, I have always given a priority to public education. Most recently, that has been evident through increases in the budget for elementary, secondary, and higher education.

With this in mind, it is my hope that this redesigned Board will have enhanced ability for greater planning, coordination, and resource allocation from kindergarten to higher education. This will produce benefits for our students, our economy, and all Rhode Islanders.