Rhode IslandH81232026 Regular SessionHouse

AN ACT RELATING TO MILITARY AFFAIRS AND DEFENSE -- DECORATIONS .

Sponsored By: Samuel A. Azzinaro (Democratic)

Signed by Governor

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

4 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.

New Legion of Merit for Rhode Island leaders

The adjutant general awards the Rhode Island Legion of Merit. It honors those in key leadership roles on active state or federal service for exceptionally meritorious service and achievements to the state or federal government. Retirees who previously served in such leadership roles are eligible. One award per person; later qualifying service earns a bronze oak leaf cluster.

Rhode Island Star adds civilians and foreign leaders

The governor can award the Rhode Island Star for outstanding service to the state. Eligible recipients include U.S. service members and Rhode Island National Guard on active state or federal service. The law also allows awards to civilian government employees and senior military or civilian leaders of foreign governments. Each person may receive only one Star; later qualifying service earns a bronze oak leaf cluster.

Ribbon for five-day duty in partner country

The adjutant general awards the Rhode Island State Partnership Program Ribbon. You must be in the U.S. armed forces or the Rhode Island National Guard and serve five straight days in a partner country while on active, state, or federal duty. Only one ribbon is allowed per person. The adjutant general may award it retroactively.

Ribbon for serving on funeral honors team

The adjutant general awards the Rhode Island Funeral Honors Ribbon. It goes to members who serve on a funeral honors team while on active, state, or federal duty. Only one ribbon is allowed per person. The adjutant general may award it retroactively.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Samuel A. Azzinaro
Democratic • House

Cosponsors

Gregory J. Costantino
Democratic • House
Brian Patrick Kennedy
Democratic • House
Thomas E. Noret
Democratic • House
Earl A. Read, III
Democratic • House
Joseph J. Solomon, Jr.
Democratic • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 66 • No: 0

House vote • 4/30/2026

MILITARY -- DECORATIONS PASSAGE