Senate proclaims Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week and extends condolences for two community members

The Rhode Island Senate spent part of its session on ceremonial resolutions, adopting a proclamation and two condolence resolutions.

Senator Sandra Cano presented a Senate resolution proclaiming February 2024 as Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week, stressing the need for research, early detection and support for affected families. In introducing the measure Cano noted the role of advocates and families and urged the body to "prioritize the well-being of our constituents" through increased research and support. The resolution cites national incidence figures and calls on citizens to observe the week; the Senate adopted the resolution after Senator Cano moved passage.

The chamber also read and approved resolutions offering deepest condolences on the passing of Jocelyn Azevedo deCouto, described in the resolution as a Pawtucket business owner who was tragically murdered, and Sharon Baptista, a longtime community member with family in Cranston. Senator Jonathan Acosta introduced the resolution for Jocelyn Azevedo deCouto and noted her local business leadership and community impact; Leader Pearson and other senators spoke in support of the condolence measures and both resolutions passed.

The Senate additionally received and referred several gubernatorial appointments and reappointments — including appointments to the Fire Safety Code Board of Appeals and Review and to the Convention Center Authority (appointments and reappointments were transmitted and referred to the Senate committees indicated on the record). The session concluded with members agreeing to recess in memory of the two deceased community members.