Rhode Island lawmakers return to the capital on Tuesday for a new session. A massive budget deficit, continued troubles with the Washington Bridge, healthcare, and housing remain some of the top issues politicians face in the Ocean State. Our reporters roundtable shares what to watch this legislative session. Also, president-elect Trump has promised to roll back anti-discrimination protections for LGBTQ people, and restrict access to transgender health care. We hear what members of the LGBTQ community can do to prepare. And we look ahead to the year in local arts and culture, and share a few of the productions, concerts and exhibits we’re most excited about. That and more on this week’s show.
Links:
- RI lawmakers prepare to return to the Statehouse
- New year, new laws: The RI laws that go into effect on Jan. 1
- TGIF: Ian Donnis’ Rhode Island politics roundup for Jan. 3, 2025
- How can members of the local LGBTQ community prepare for a second Trump term?
- What are we looking forward to in arts and culture for 2025?
- Moby Dick Marathon at the New Bedford Whaling Museum (Jan. 3-5)
- “Pied Type: Letterpress Printing in Providence, 1762-Today” at Providence Public Library (through Jan. 11)
- “Girls and Boys” at The Gamm Theatre (through Jan. 19)
Guests:
- Steph Machado, reporter, Globe Rhode Island
- Jim Hummel, host, A Lively Experiment
- Ian Donnis, The Public’s Radio political reporter
- Sarah Austin, staff attorney, GLAD Law
- Tracy MacDonald, executive producer of arts and culture, Rhode Island PBS
The Weekly Catch is a production of The Public’s Radio. Our host is Luis Hernandez. Our producer is James Baumgartner. Our assistant producer is Joe Tasca. Our editor is Mareva Lindo. Thanks to Maddie Mott for our podcast artwork. Our Chief Content Officer is Sally Eisele, and our President and CEO is Pam Johnston.
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