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Boston Globe
4 days ago
- Business
- Boston Globe
It's time to tax the wealthiest and invest in a Rhode Island that works for all of us
Get Rhode Map A weekday briefing from veteran Rhode Island reporters, focused on the things that matter most in the Ocean State. Enter Email Sign Up We reject the tired, misleading narratives pushed by opponents like the Advertisement 'Taxing the 1% is the fair thing to do. Rhode Island's economy is growing; everyone should pay their fair share for the growth and economic well-being of our state,' says Vennicia Kingston, a member of RIBBA and CEO of Eagle Eye Construction in Johnston, R.I. Advertisement Meanwhile, the wealthiest among us often benefit from tax loopholes and wealth management strategies that lower their effective tax rates well below what most working families pay. Many high-income earners receive income through pass-through entities, investments, and capital gains — all taxed at lower rates than the wages earned by small business owners and everyday Rhode Islanders. According to the — a clear sign of a regressive and inequitable system. It's time to fix that. The revenue from this proposal would directly support the critical services that create a strong, thriving economy: education, child care, health care, transportation, housing, and senior care. These investments are not just social goods, they are economic multipliers that benefit everyone, including the business community. Let's also reject the fear-based claim that wealthy residents will According to the Economic Progress Institute's 2024 Rhode Island Standard of Need 68 percent of single adults, 78 percent of single parents with two children, and 34 percent of two-parent households with two children cannot afford to meet their basic needs without public assistance. That is not sustainable. That is not fair, and is not a Rhode Island where we want to live. Advertisement RIBBA works every day to close the racial wealth gap, and we see firsthand how tax and budget decisions shape economic opportunities. When we underfund the services that help families thrive, it's Black, Brown, immigrant, and working-class Rhode Islanders who pay the price. That's why this legislation is about more than revenue — it's about justice, equity, and building a Rhode Island where everyone has a chance to succeed. 'This is much needed legislation. We at MAAT Future believe that what is fair is fair. Rhode Island should be proud and begin to move faster and progressively with the times,' state Mike and Tamara Tardy, members of RIBBA and owners of R.I.-based MAAT Future, LLC. We urge the General Assembly to pass H-5473/S-0329. Let's stop balancing our state budget on the backs of those who can least afford it, and start asking those who've benefited the most to contribute their fair share. The people are ready. The evidence is clear. The time is now. Let's tax the 1 percent — and reinvest in the 99 percent. Lisa Ranglin is the president and CEO of RIBBA, a nonprofit that works to advance opportunities for Rhode Island businesses and career professionals.
Yahoo
07-02-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Why you're seeing red: ‘Wear Red Day' raises awareness for women's heart health
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — If you've watched our newscasts or browsed social media today, you've probably noticed a lot of red. But Valentine's Day isn't until next Friday, right? Don't worry—we haven't mixed up our days. February is American Heart Month, and the first Friday of the month is designated as 'National Wear Red Day' to raise awareness about women's heart health. While cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading health threat in Rhode Island and across the country, some people face higher risks than others, according to health experts. The American Heart Association (AHA) says that life stages like pregnancy and menopause can increase a woman's risk for CVD. In fact, 45% of women over the age of 20 are living with some form of heart disease, according to the AHA's 2025 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistical Update. Since 2004, the AHA has encouraged people to 'Go Red for Women' to raise awareness and address gaps in clinical care throughout every stage of life. READ ALSO: Blood test may detect heart disease risk in women decades earlier The association encourages everyone to get involved by: Wearing red to support the women in your life. Spreading the word on social media using the hashtags #WearRedDay, #WearRedandGive and #HeartMonth. Donating or creating your own fundraiser page. Dr. Heather Hurlburt, a cardiologist at Kent Hospital, told 12 News this is a great time to check in with your doctor about preventing heart disease through healthy eating and exercise habits. 'Think about your own risk and check in with your doctors and get the care that you can to detect heart disease, before it's too late,' Hurlburt said. She added that it's important to be aware of general risk factors, regularly check your blood pressure and cholesterol, stop smoking, and maintain an active lifestyle. Hurlburt also said Wear Red Day is an opportunity to reflect on your health and remember that heart disease is still widespread. 'You may not think that it affects you. but all of these risk factors are things that can sometimes go unnoticed,' she said. NEXT: How to stay healthy with sickness on the rise in Rhode Island Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
