AGP Executive Report

Housing & Universities: Providence’s rental squeeze is tied to university-driven demand and tax-exempt property, with evictions up and homelessness rising as student housing pushes families out. Public Health: Rhode Island health and environmental officials say H5N1 avian flu was found at Antonelli Poultry in Providence; about 445 birds were euthanized, the market will close for cleanup, and staff will be monitored. Food Safety: The FDA upgraded an Alfredo sauce recall to the highest risk level after potential Salmonella exposure linked to a dry milk ingredient; distribution reached 41 states. Energy/Trade Policy: A U.S.-Iran framework is being described as a path to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and end naval blockade activity, with shipping impacts in focus. Regulation & Markets: The CFTC’s prediction-market fight expands as New Mexico joins the Kalshi dispute, arguing state enforcement conflicts with federal oversight. Local Business: Mancini Demolition was named a top Rhode Island demolition contractor by Business Rate.

Avian Flu Response in Providence: Rhode Island health and environmental officials say H5N1 was found at Antonelli Poultry; about 445 asymptomatic birds were euthanized and the market will stay closed for cleaning and sanitizing, while staff are monitored for 10 days and the human risk is described as low. Food Safety Recall: The FDA issued a Class I recall for Alfredo sauce tied to possible salmonella contamination, with distribution to food service operations across 41 states. Defense Industry Expansion: Raytheon plans a $100 million expansion in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, to grow missile defense radar testing and Patriot missile subcomponent production, creating about 150 jobs. Port & Maritime Growth: A new pier is set to expand capacity at Quonset Business Park’s Port of Davisville, aiming to boost shipping and related opportunities. Local Agriculture & Training: Ghana’s Black Stars trained in Providence as World Cup preparations ramp up, highlighting Rhode Island’s role in international sports logistics. Public Health Policy Fight: Rhode Island AGs joined a coalition urging Congress to restore SNAP benefits in the Farm Bill, warning cuts increase hunger and shift costs to states. Vehicle Safety Recall: Honda announced a recall affecting 880,000 vehicles nationwide due to rear suspension failure risk linked to corrosion from de-icing agents, including Rhode Island.

Defense Manufacturing: Raytheon is expanding its Portsmouth, Rhode Island, missile defense operations with a $100 million project expected to create about 150 jobs, boosting LTAMDS radar testing and Patriot GEM-T missile subcomponent production. Public Health & Agriculture: Avian flu (H5N1) was found at Antonelli Poultry in Providence, leading to the euthanization of 445 asymptomatic birds; the market will close for cleanup and staff will be monitored, with human risk still considered low. Energy & Environment: Rhode Island is among states joining a lawsuit challenging a Trump administration deal that would pay TotalEnergies $1 billion to abandon offshore wind leases and shift investment to fossil fuels. Local Economy & Workforce: A new analysis of hiring since 2020 shows Rhode Island job openings down 4.2%, highlighting uneven recovery across the U.S. Education & Skills: Chariho Career & Technical Center junior Kaitlyn Charette won the 2026 STEAM Logo Design Contest, with her design set for statewide promotional use. Food & Community: Rhode Island’s World Cup watch parties and FanZone activity are drawing visitors to Providence, with Scotland matches at Gillette Stadium bringing extra demand to local hotels and restaurants.

Defense & Jobs: Raytheon is expanding its Portsmouth, Rhode Island, missile defense operations with a $100 million project expected to add about 150 high-skilled jobs, boosting LTAMDS radar testing and Patriot GEM-T subcomponent production. Stormwater & Resilience: The Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank awarded about $1.1 million in EPA-funded stormwater and flood-mitigation design/engineering grants across multiple towns, including New Shoreham’s West Beach Road planning. Energy & Permitting: North Kingstown plans to sue the EPA over a proposed pyrolysis facility tied to sewage sludge processing at Quonset Business Park, arguing the agency didn’t properly account for related facilities and shared infrastructure under Clean Air Act rules. Workforce & Training: Chariho Career & Technical Center student Kaitlyn Charette won the 2026 STEAM Logo Design Contest, with her design slated for statewide STEAM promotions. Local Business Relief: SBA approved Economic Injury Disaster Loans for Rhode Island businesses and private nonprofits hit by the 2026 historic snowstorm. Health Policy Debate: A coalition of attorneys general is urging the Senate to restore SNAP benefits and protect food assistance in the Farm Bill. EV Costs: A new Insurify report says insuring EVs averages $3,159 annually—about 42% more than comparable gas cars—highlighting how state-by-state rates can swing.

Port & Logistics: Quonset’s Port of Davisville is seeing early payoff from the new Terminal 5 Pier, with the first ship call bringing more than 1,100 GM and Chevrolet vehicles—capacity that also supports heavy cargo and offshore wind work. Infrastructure Funding: The Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank awarded about $1.1M in EPA stormwater design grants across multiple towns, including New Shoreham, to turn flooding fixes into shovel-ready projects. Real Estate & Development: Pawtucket’s Memorial Hospital campus is moving toward redevelopment after a deed restriction amendment cleared, with GAMG targeting a mixed-use, affordable and veteran-focused housing plan. Local Governance & Housing: Rhode Island lawmakers wrapped up the session with housing, education, and criminal justice changes, including limits on parking requirements for multifamily projects near transit and a new commission to study school funding. Energy & Environment: North Kingstown plans to sue the EPA over a proposed pyrolysis facility, arguing it should face stricter Clean Air Act review. Workforce & Industry: Rhode Island’s hiring recovery since 2020 has lagged, with job openings down in the state, while regional training wins attention—from Chariho Tech’s STEAM logo contest to Bristol-Plymouth Regional Technical School’s top seniors. Sports & Community: World Cup watch parties and Providence’s FanZone are drawing visitors, while Ghana’s team continues training in Rhode Island ahead of its opener.

Infrastructure & Resilience: Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank awarded about $1.1M in EPA stormwater planning grants across multiple communities, aiming to turn flooding problems into shovel-ready designs. State Budget: Gov. Dan McKee signed the $15.2B FY27 budget, highlighting affordability priorities and childcare-related momentum as the session wrapped. Port & Logistics: Quonset’s Port of Davisville is seeing early payoff from the new Terminal 5 Pier, expanding capacity for auto carriers and other specialized cargoes. Real Estate & Housing: GAMG is moving ahead with plans to acquire and redevelop the former Memorial Hospital campus in Pawtucket into mixed-use housing, including affordable and veteran units. Cannabis Regulation: The Rhode Island Senate confirmed a new Cannabis Control Commission chair, restoring leadership for the state’s regulated cannabis and hemp industries. Workforce & Business Climate: Providence Business News named Lathrop Insurance a top workplace, while the state’s life sciences sector continues building around the Rhode Island Life Science Hub. Food Security Policy: Rhode Island-linked AG coalition efforts urged Congress to restore SNAP benefits in the Farm Bill.

World Cup & Hospitality: Providence’s PVD FanZone at Station Park opens as Team Ghana arrives, with free match broadcasts, entertainment, and food trucks running June 11–July 19—plus Rhode Island Hospitality Association guidance for visitors on tipping and service charges. Real Estate & Construction: Eastern Bank funds Wood Partners’ Alta Altitude in Warwick with a $31M construction loan for a 214-unit luxury project in the City Centre. Cannabis Policy: Rhode Island Senate confirms Michelle Reddish as new Cannabis Control Commission chair, keeping the commission’s medical and recreational oversight moving. Small Business Relief: SBA approves Rhode Island Economic Injury Disaster Loans tied to the Feb. 2026 historic snowstorm, with an application deadline of March 10, 2027. Local Business Moves: Ionic Development Company hires Michael Morizio as project manager; Elite Commercial Realty Group welcomes Robert Fox back; Gale Associates opens a Providence office at The Foundry. Weather & Health: Statewide air quality alert warns of unhealthy ozone levels for sensitive groups on June 12.

Cannabis Regulation: Rhode Island’s Senate confirmed Michelle Reddish as the new chair of the Cannabis Control Commission, with Robert Jacquard reappointed—keeping the state’s medical, recreational, and hemp oversight on track. Life Sciences & Jobs: The Rhode Island Life Science Hub named Bob Cormier as its new president and CEO, following Dr. Mark Turco’s unexpected March resignation. Maritime Industry: UConn launched the UConn Shipbuilding Initiative to coordinate shipbuilding research, workforce training, and supply-chain work, citing more than $130M already secured for maritime projects. Infrastructure: Washington Bridge replacement work moved into the in-water phase, with crews installing the first of 32 drilled shafts for the new westbound span. Waste & Materials: A new mattress-foam recycling patent aims to turn polyurethane foam into synthetic leather, shoe soles, and phone-case materials. Energy & Climate: The NSF has begun dismantling an ocean monitoring network earlier than planned, raising alarms about losing key data on warming oceans. Local Business: Bartholomew & Co. named Alex Bartholomew CEO, continuing a leadership transition at the firm managing nearly $6B. Public-Private Partnerships: Pawtucket’s APA RI event will spotlight Tidewater Landing and what it takes to deliver a major P3 waterfront project.

Higher Ed & Global Sports: Bryant University is hosting Ghana’s Black Stars as its 2026 World Cup base camp, positioning the university as a bridge between academics, athletics, and regional economic connections. Manufacturing Innovation: Rhode Island startup Nterprisers partnered with Wazoku to give small and mid-sized U.S. manufacturers access to open innovation challenges and global problem-solving resources. Health & Biotech: A new PET imaging agent (MK-6240) may detect Alzheimer’s-related tau earlier than the current standard, potentially speeding diagnosis and improving patient selection for therapies. Infrastructure: In Providence, crews began in-water work on the Washington Bridge replacement, starting drilled shafts that will support the new westbound span, with a planned opening in 2028. Energy Policy: New England governors urged federal regulators to reject a proposed electricity profit increase, warning it could raise costs for households and businesses. Auto Repair Regulation: Rhode Island proposed adding ADAS technician certification to auto body licensing requirements, citing the growing presence of these safety systems in today’s vehicles. Offshore Wind: CRMC approved a key SouthCoast Wind permit, though the project’s cable path and broader timeline remain uncertain amid shifting federal policy. Local Safety: RIDOT approved a traffic signal for a long-dangerous Foster intersection after resident pressure and crash reports. Food Access for Seniors: Rhode Island launched its 2026 Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program, offering eligible seniors $50 prepaid cards for fresh produce.

Washington Bridge: Providence crews have begun physical work on the new westbound span, starting with the first of 32 drilled-shaft foundation supports; the project is slated to open in November 2028, while a judge also appointed a special master to manage discovery fights in the state’s lawsuit. Energy & policy: Gov. McKee’s PUC nominee Donna Sams is stuck in legislative limbo as senators delay action until January, and a House hearing turned tense after DOE Energy Secretary Chris Wright snapped at lawmakers over canceled clean-energy grants tied to Rhode Island. Public health: Rhode Island lawmakers moved to limit Medicaid coverage for GLP-1 obesity treatments to people with Type 2 diabetes, a change critics say may raise long-term costs. Manufacturing: Rhode Island’s manufacturing sector is bracing for owner exits, with many businesses lacking succession plans. Legal & consumer: A Rhode Island federal case could face disciplinary proceedings for DOJ lawyers tied to subpoenaed medical records, and a major Honda recall includes Rhode Island vehicles over rear suspension rust risk. Business & real estate: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Commonwealth Real Estate and Robert Paul Properties topped $1M for the Sunshine Kids Foundation.

Transportation & Labor Law: The U.S. Supreme Court ruled unanimously that transportation workers can qualify for the FAA exemption even when their jobs don’t cross state lines, a win that could reshape arbitration fights for last-mile delivery and similar roles. Energy Assistance: Rhode Island’s Good Neighbor Energy Fund extended its utility bill help deadline through June 30 as demand spiked, with 211 calls up sharply in May. Public Health & Food Safety: A Salmonella outbreak tied to moringa leaf powder supplements has expanded to 119 cases across 36 states, prompting additional FDA recall updates. State Budget: Rhode Island’s FY27 budget cleared the Senate and heads to Gov. Dan McKee, featuring a phased-in millionaire’s tax increase. Infrastructure Updates: RIDOT is shifting traffic patterns on Post Road at Route 37 in Warwick to support bridge work, with changes expected through summer. Agriculture & Federal Funding: Michigan AG Dana Nessel won a preliminary injunction blocking USDA funding conditions tied to immigration and other unrelated political requirements.

Defense & Jobs: RTX is investing $100M to expand Raytheon’s Portsmouth, R.I. facility, adding testing capacity for LTAMDS radar and boosting Patriot GEM-T component production—aimed at meeting rising air-and-missile defense demand. Infrastructure: RIDOT will shift traffic on Route 1 (Post Road) at the Route 37 overpass in Warwick starting June 12 to keep construction moving on a deficient bridge; the pattern runs through summer 2026. Food & Safety: FDA expanded a recall of GO Raw LLC freeze-dried and frozen raw pet foods after thiamine (Vitamin B1) was found at extremely low levels; one more product was added to the list. Healthcare & Workforce: A national teachers’ union lawsuit targets the U.S. Education Department over halted English-learner grant funding, alleging the cuts were driven by concerns about diversity and equity. Public Health: A new report highlights rising postpartum depression rates nationwide, underscoring the need for screening and treatment. Labor/Community: A Rhode Island pharmacy workers union effort (Pharmacy Guild) is growing and pushing for safe staffing in contracts.

Defense & Jobs: Raytheon is expanding its Portsmouth campus with a $100M investment, adding a new radar test range and recommissioning a manufacturing building—bringing 150 new jobs. Infrastructure & Resilience: The Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank awarded $1.09M in EPA stormwater grants to 10 communities for flood mitigation and drainage upgrades, including green infrastructure in Providence’s Washington Park area. Energy Policy: A new push is emerging to revisit Rhode Island’s power-plant ownership rules as environmental advocates warn ratepayer impacts after lawmakers briefly advanced a bill that would let Rhode Island Energy own power plants. Workforce & Immigration: A federal judge struck down Trump’s $100,000 H-1B fee as an unlawful tax, a win for employers relying on skilled foreign workers. Retail & Labor: Rhode Island Senate passed a bill limiting grocery self-checkouts—requiring staffing ratios and protections for employees—sending it to the House. Consumer Costs: GasBuddy reports Providence County midgrade prices dipping to as low as $4.49 per gallon in the week ending May 30.

Defense & Manufacturing Jobs: Raytheon (RTX) will invest $100 million to expand its Portsmouth facility, aiming to boost testing and production tied to air and missile defense, with 150 high-tech jobs expected. Workforce Development: North Kingstown High School opened a new machinist and manufacturing defense facility after a four-year push, partnering with Electric Boat and the Champlin Foundation to train students for industry credentials. Consumer Protection for Business: Rhode Island’s Secretary of State backed new laws targeting business identity theft and scammy annual report solicitations, adding protections for filers. Insurance/Auto Claims: The Rhode Island Senate passed a bill raising the “total loss” threshold to 85%, shifting more damaged vehicles toward repair shops. Energy Policy: Environmental advocates helped stop a late-session push that would have let Rhode Island Energy own power plants. Public Lands & Water Infrastructure: Middletown, Jamestown and Block Island were among communities awarded state stormwater grants. Campground & Tourism Infrastructure: Burlingame State Campground in Charlestown is set to open for the season after restroom and shower upgrades, with reservations starting June 10. Fuel Prices: GasBuddy reports midgrade prices at the lowest in Newport County at $4.75/gal for the week ending May 30.

Climate Politics: A new report says many Democrats are going quiet on climate change as midterms near, with Rhode Island Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse calling out “climate hushers” and arguing higher insurance, grocery, and health costs are already hitting families. Downtown Real Estate: Providence’s “Superman” building—state’s tallest skyscraper—has sat empty for 13 years, becoming a visible symbol of stalled office-to-redevelopment plans. Healthcare Fraud Prevention: Medicare Fraud Prevention Week drew federal and state officials to warn Rhode Island seniors about scams, fake claims, and identity theft. Hospice Expansion: HopeHealth won a $200,000 grant to expand community engagement and connect underserved residents to grief support, palliative care, and end-of-life services. Data Centers & Local Costs: A Michigan moratorium on data centers and battery storage is spreading as residents demand answers on power, water, and land costs—an issue Rhode Island communities will recognize. Public Safety & Tourism: Boston’s World Cup security push includes anti-trafficking awareness efforts and reminders like no drones or fireworks. Energy Prices: AAA data shows Rhode Island gas is slightly below New England peers amid higher national fuel costs tied to geopolitical risk.

Immigration & Courts: A Rhode Island federal judge struck down Trump-era immigration curbs that paused asylum and froze benefits for people from 39 countries, saying the hold can’t be blamed on applicants and violates federal law. Food Supply & SNAP: A judge also blocked USDA enforcement of new conditions tied to gender and immigration, pausing requirements that could have disrupted SNAP and other federal food assistance. Retail Operations: Rhode Island’s Senate passed a bill to limit self-checkout—requiring at least one staffed lane per three self-checkouts and capping how many self-checkouts can be open at once. Energy & Industry: A week of fallout continues from Trump’s wind pullback, including reports of offshore wind deal reversals that are roiling businesses. Local Business & Consumer Costs: AAA data shows Rhode Island gas prices slightly below New England peers, but higher fuel costs are still squeezing household budgets. Tech & Compliance: Microsoft data ranks Vermont near the bottom for AI use, while Microsoft links lower AI adoption to heavier manufacturing and construction workforces. Sports Betting Legal Fight: The CFTC is challenging prediction markets in multiple states, including Rhode Island, setting up major court battles over whether these platforms are gambling or regulated trading.