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On September 6, 2025, Rhode Island's commercial law landscape saw significant changes with the passing of new legislation aimed at protecting small businesses in the state. The Rhode Island General Assembly approved a series of measures designed to provide greater support and legal safeguards for small businesses operating in the state.One of the key pieces of legislation passed was the Small Business Protection Act, which aims to address the challenges faced by small businesses in Rhode Island. The Act includes provisions to streamline the process for small businesses to file for bankruptcy protection, as well as measures to provide financial assistance and resources to struggling businesses.In addition to the Small Business Protection Act, the General Assembly also passed a new law aimed at combating predatory lending practices targeting small businesses. The law prohibits lenders from engaging in unfair or deceptive practices when extending loans to small businesses, and provides legal recourse for small business owners who believe they have been victimized by such practices.Furthermore, the General Assembly approved a measure to strengthen protections for small business owners in commercial lease agreements. The new law includes provisions to ensure fair and transparent lease agreements, as well as measures to protect small businesses from predatory landlords seeking to take advantage of their tenants.Overall, the new legislation represents a significant step forward in protecting the rights and interests of small businesses in Rhode Island. Lawmakers and business advocates alike have praised the measures as a much-needed reform to support the state's small business community and promote a fair and competitive commercial environment.In a statement following the passage of the new legislation, Governor Jack Reed expressed his support for the measures, stating that they would "provide much-needed support and protections for small businesses in Rhode Island, ensuring that they have the tools and resources necessary to succeed in today's competitive marketplace."The new commercial laws are set to go into effect on January 1, 2026, and are expected to have a positive impact on the state's small business community. With these new protections in place, small business owners in Rhode Island can now operate with greater peace of mind, knowing that they have legal safeguards in place to protect their interests and ensure a level playing field in the commercial marketplace.