RI Cabinet Raises Take Effect Despite House Rejection

The Rhode Island House of Representatives unanimously voted to reject Governor Dan McKee's proposed raises for 11 cabinet members, citing budget concerns and uncertainty over federal funding. Although the House formally opposed the raises, the Senate leadership announced it would not block the increases, allowing them to take effect. Senate President Valarie J. Lawson stated that legislative intervention was unwarranted, emphasizing the importance of competitive salaries for department directors. The raises total over $80,000 and affect positions such as the Department of Transportation and Department of Administration. This episode marks the first time the House exercised its authority to reject executive salary increases, underscoring tensions over fiscal priorities. The House maintained that the decision was not a reflection on cabinet performance but a response to the state's projected $190 million deficit.