Statement from Governor Lincoln D. Chafee on the Court’s Initial Ruling in the 38 Studios Case

I am gratified by the Court’s initial ruling in the 38 Studios case. It allows the important claims to proceed and is a significant first step to recovering the taxpayers’ losses.

Statement from Governor Lincoln D. Chafee Applauding President Obama and HUD Secretary Donovan

As Governor of a state that has experienced a number of severe weather events in recent years, including Hurricane Sandy, I have seen firsthand the very real and harmful effects these events have on our citizens.

As many states continue to rebuild from Hurricane Sandy, I applaud President Obama and Secretary Donovan for their hard work to better streamline and coordinate federal efforts.

I look forward to the continued dialogue and further identifying ways we can all work together to ensure that the much needed support reaches those in need as swiftly as possible

Statement from the Office of Governor Lincoln D. Chafee Regarding Jason Pleau Plea Agreement

My thoughts are with Mr. Main’s family. The case today has reached a conclusion, and Mr. Main’s family can begin the long healing process. A life sentence is the appropriate punishment for this brutal crime and respects Rhode Island’s long-standing opposition to the death penalty.

Statement from Governor Lincoln D. Chafee Regarding Today’s Signing of an Act Related to Quality Child Care

Today, I signed into law the Quality Family Care Act, House Bill 5946 A and Senate Bill 0794 A, which will expand training and professional development opportunities to family child care providers. The opportunities will lead to improved learning programs for young children in Rhode Island. I commend the sponsors of the bills, Representative Scott Slater and Senator Maryellen Goodwin, for hearing the concerns associated with previous introductions and obtaining overwhelming support by the General Assembly. Experience tells us that the strength of a child’s development in the first three years of life can make the difference in personal success in education. The recruitment and retention of appropriately skilled professionals supply better pre-kindergarten family settings. Now, providers, who participate in the state’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), will be able to come together, and build a stronger and enlarged network of early learning choices through being part of a provider organization.

Statement from Governor Lincoln D. Chafee Regarding Today’s Signing of an Act Relating to Bryant University

Today, I signed into law House Bill 5083 Aaa and Senate Bill 0026 Aaa that would require Bryant University and the Town of Smithfield to negotiate a memorandum of agreement regarding payment for police, fire, and rescue services. In the absence of an agreement by March 1, 2014, Bryant University would begin reimbursing the town for such services.

I believe that the Town of Smithfield and the University have an opportunity to collaborate and work out an agreement that is beneficial to both entities. Fostering a strong relationship takes a lot of work and requires both parties to participate wholeheartedly. I support the bills, sponsored by Representative Thomas Winfield and by Senator Stephen Archambault, and passed by the General Assembly, that focus on improving the relationship through good faith negotiations. This legislation is not about taxing a non-profit or undermining its IRS protections, but it is about bringing both partners to the table to strike a balanced and fair relationship.

Statement from Governor Lincoln D. Chafee Regarding Today’s Budget Signing

The 2014 budget that I signed into law today had several encouraging priorities and initiatives, specifically the investment in education, infrastructure and workforce development. Although the municipal aid package surpasses the ones from past administrations, it is still inadequate for our cities and towns.

I am heartened that this year the legislature continued to invest in education and our public schools. I am proud that we have boosted K-12 funding by more than $30 million and achieved a tuition freeze at CCRI, RIC, and URI through $6 million in additional higher education funding.

The $1.25 million for new workforce development programs -- while less than my recommendation -- is still a meaningful commitment to worker training.  It will provide invaluable professional experience to out-of-work Rhode Islanders and help match workers to the right companies.

In Rhode Island, the Governor must submit a budget proposal based on November revenue estimates, and the General Assembly works with revised May’s figures. This year the General Assembly saw a revenue shortfall from November, and many difficult choices needed to be made.

Several of my proposals were altered such as my recommendation to lower the state’s corporate tax rate from 9% to 7% over three years.  Unfortunately, because of the revenue shortfall, this was not enacted.

Another proposal involved municipal aid. As you know, I have been working to reverse the damage done by the past administration to municipalities and the Rhode Island property taxpayer. I was discouraged that the General Assembly decreased the amount but assistance will still go to ailing municipalities.

A new municipal road and bridge revolving fund that will provide $7 million in loans to cities and towns adds a burden. There are costs associated with borrowing, which some municipalities cannot afford. Also, as mayor I never issued a bond that exceeded the “useful life” of a project.

Similarly, the $.10 toll for the Sakonnet River Bridge was not what I had proposed. I believe the General Assembly and my administration will join together, and, through a study, will come up with a proposal that helps bring in a revenue stream at a level that can support the Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority's assets. I remain optimistic that a reasonable solution will be reached. The reality is that the money must come from somewhere. I do not want to see another bridge completely replaced – at great cost to taxpayers – because of a lack of maintenance. This happened with the old Sakonnet River Bridge.

Finally, much debate centered around 38 Studios – specifically, whether the state should make our moral obligation bond payments. I have been unequivocal in my belief that we must honor the moral obligations of the State. If the payment was not made, it would have brought severe consequences – both immediate and long-term – for Rhode Island’s finances. While it is difficult to put an exact dollar amount on how much our failure to pay could cost, evidence suggests it could likely exceed $100 million, through increased borrowing costs, a lower credit rating, and potential litigation. Beyond near-term costs, there is the broader and longer-lasting question of reputation.

I am therefore encouraged that the General Assembly voted to make the first scheduled bond payment.  Last week Moody’s removed the state’s debt from review for downgrade.  We have sent a clear message to the investment community that Rhode Island honors commitments. Those far beyond Rhode Island’s borders will take notice of this fact, and it bodes well for our credit rating, borrowing ability, and reputation.

This is by no means a perfect budget; it was an exercise in compromise, collaboration, and cooperation. While I have expressed my disappointment in some aspects, I also see a number of measures that will continue moving us forward. This is also about preserving Rhode Island’s positive image as a state that is open for business – where certainty, predictability, and stability guide our state government.  Rhode Island continues on the path of making our state a better place to live, work, and raise a family.

Statement from Governor Lincoln D. Chafee Regarding the Actions of Moody’s Investors Service

I am pleased that, despite some lively debate, the General Assembly has ultimately chosen to do the right thing and live up to our debts. This sends a clear message to the investment community that Rhode Island is a state that will continue to honor its obligations.

With that in mind, Moody’s action today demonstrates that those beyond our borders will continue to take notice of our efforts to make decisions in the interest of the long-term fiscal health of our state.

To learn more about Moody’s announcement, visit:

http://www.moodys.com/research/Moodys-confirms-Baa1-on-Rhode-Island-38-Studios-bonds-removes--PR_276973

Statement from Governor Lincoln Chafee on the U.S. Supreme Court’s Decision Striking Down the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA)

All those who value the American ideals of tolerance, fairness, respect for diversity, and equal protection under the law should be heartened by this morning’s historic decision, which struck down the federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA). 

For the nearly two decades that DOMA was the law of the land in our country, discrimination and unequal treatment were, regrettably, given legal legitimacy. Today’s decision, therefore, is a meaningful, positive development in the long and ongoing story of the United States as the freest country on earth. 

I am pleased that we were recently able to secure passage of marriage equality here in Rhode Island, and the Supreme Court’s decision today will extend federal benefits and protections to same-sex Rhode Island couples who choose to marry. 

As I have said before, public opinion is rapidly evolving on this issue, and laws at the local, state, and federal level increasingly reflect that evolution. I am confident that the push for equality will continue to grow stronger in state houses, court houses, and polling places in every state in America. But today’s decision, in the highest court in the land, is a significant victory and no small step forward for our country.

Statement from Governor Lincoln D. Chafee Regarding Today’s Actions by Moody’s Investors Service

I am confident that we will continue to honor our obligations. We want to send a clear message to the investment community that Rhode Island is a place that will make the difficult but necessary decisions for the long-term health of our state.

I believe that the General Assembly will do the right thing to protect the reputation and borrowing ability of Rhode Island.

Statement from Governor Lincoln D. Chafee

I am pleased that we have reached an agreement with Commissioner Gist. The Commissioner and I have enjoyed a productive and positive relationship over the past several years, and I look forward to continuing to work with her on behalf of Rhode Island’s students.

Statement from Governor Lincoln D. Chafee Regarding the Passing of Senator Frank Lautenberg

I was saddened to learn this morning of the death of Senator Frank Lautenberg, who for decades represented the people of New Jersey with distinction, dedication, and honor.

He also served his nation as a member of the United States Army Signal Corps in the Second World War. Senator Lautenberg’s passing marks a significant milestone: at the time of his death, he was the only World War II veteran in the Senate – the last of a group that once included Senators Daniel Inouye, Bob Dole, John F. Kennedy, George McGovern, Ted Stevens, and John Chafee, among many others. These men, representatives of a generation forged by battle and sacrifice abroad, came to understand the value of public service early in life, and continued that honorable service in the political arena after returning home.

I was fortunate to serve alongside Senator Lautenberg on the Environment & Public Works Committee, where I was proud to stand with him in defense of some of the most critical environmental legislation of our time, such as the Clean Air & Clean Water Acts and a sensible Endangered Species Act. Senator Lautenberg and I also shared a belief in the importance of investing in our public infrastructure, and worked together to secure passage of the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act of 2005.

In his three decades in the United States Senate, Frank Lautenberg upheld that Chamber’s long legacy of serious, collaborative work carried out for the good of the people. He will be missed, not just in his home State of New Jersey, but across the country.

Governor Chafee Orders U.S. and State Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff During the Forenoon Period on Memorial Day

In honor of Memorial Day, May 27, 2013, President Barack Obama has today requested the Governors of the United States and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the appropriate officials of all units of government, to direct that the flag of the United States be flown at half-staff until noon on this Memorial Day on all buildings, grounds, and naval vessels throughout the United States and in all areas under its jurisdiction and control.

Accordingly, Governor Chafee has directed that, in addition to the flag of the United States, the Rhode Island flag fly at half-staff on all public buildings and grounds across the state on Monday, May 27, until noon.

Click here to see the proclamation from the President.

Governor Chafee Orders U.S. and State Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff in Honor of Peace Officers Memorial Day

President Barack Obama has proclaimed May 15, 2013, Peace Officers Memorial Day and has ordered the flag of the United States to be flown at half-staff during the course of that day. Accordingly, Governor Lincoln 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 and grounds across the state on Wednesday, May 15.

Click here to see the proclamation from the President.

Statement from Governor Lincoln D. Chafee on U.S. Senate Passage of the Marketplace Fairness Act

I am pleased that the Senate has voted overwhelmingly, with strong bipartisan support, to pass the Marketplace Fairness Act.

Since taking office as Governor, I have been a vocal proponent of Marketplace Fairness. I sent a letter to all of my fellow Governors in conjunction with the 2011 National Governors Association meeting urging them to lobby their Senate delegations on this important issue. I also submitted written testimony last year to the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. And just a few weeks ago, I joined with Senator Reed, who has been a leader in these efforts, and local retailers to point out the ways in which Marketplace Fairness will help Rhode Island businesses.

Not only will the Marketplace Fairness Act level the playing field between Main Street stores and online retailers, it will also bring valuable revenue to our state and make our overall economic climate more competitive. The FY2012 Rhode Island Budget I signed into law included a trigger to lower the overall state sales tax rate from 7% to 6.5% if Marketplace Fairness legislation passes at the federal level.

Now our efforts move to the House of Representatives. This is an important economic issue that matters to Governors across the country, and I therefore encourage my colleagues to contact their House delegations and strongly urge swift passage of the Marketplace Fairness Act.

Statement from Governor Lincoln D. Chafee on the Passing of Former Rhode Island First Lady Elena Pastore

I was saddened to learn of the passing of Rhode Island’s former First Lady Elena Pastore. A devoted mother, she was surrounded at the time of her death by numerous loved ones, including her daughter.

From the very beginning, it was clear that Elena Pastore was special. Born on Leap Day in 1920, she grew up one of 10 children in a large, Italian-American family in Providence.

Although she was only in her early 20s when her husband, John Pastore, became Governor, she was his most important and trusted political advisor. Throughout his long career – in which he was both the first Italian-American Governor and U.S. Senator – Elena was by his side, his companion, confidante, and counselor. Those who knew John and Elena well had little doubt that she was a key ingredient to his tremendous success.

Elena helped raise and nurture three accomplished children, including her son, Dr. John O. Pastore, Jr., who was secretary of the International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War when the group won the Nobel Peace Prize.

John Pastore is among the most beloved leaders the State of Rhode Island has ever known; we have now lost the extraordinary woman without whom his distinguished career would not have been possible. When we consider the many contributions Governor and Senator Pastore made to his home state, we should thank Elena, as well. She will be missed.

Statement from Governor Lincoln D. Chafee Regarding Senate Passage of the Marriage Equality Act

I am always proud to be a Rhode Islander, but never more so than today.

After yesterday’s Judiciary Committee vote, I expressed my hope that the full Rhode Island Senate would pass a bill that chooses tolerance and fairness over division and discrimination. In passing the Marriage Equality Act, they have done just that.

I thank the Senators who have taken a stand to move Rhode Island forward and commend the Senate President for calling the roll. Great credit should go to Ray Sullivan, everyone at Rhode Islanders United for Marriage, and the countless volunteers who knocked on doors and participated in phone banks. Finally, I want to applaud the pioneers, such as the late Julie Pell, who for decades have fought for the fundamental rights of gay and lesbian Rhode Islanders. This day would not have been possible without their efforts.

Pending the final vote by the House of Representatives, Rhode Island will no longer be an outlier in our region. We will have the welcome mat out. We will be open for business, and we will once again affirm our legacy as a place that is tolerant and appreciative of diversity.