Article published in the 2025/2026 edition of the Rhode Island Family Guide:
Have you ever considered how you can bring about change? Or have you talked with your family about any issues that you wish could be addressed?
Anyone can become involved if they have a civic need.
You can be an advocate for change, at both the state and federal level, to address legislative concerns.
Start by finding out who your state and federal representatives and senators are in your district. It’s as easy as going to the Rhode Island Secretary of State website (sos.ri.gov) and typing in your address.
Each and every voice counts, especially yours. Here are some simple steps you can take:
- Reach out to your local state or federal legislator and ask to meet with them.
- Let them know you have an idea for legislation.
- Explain that you would like to create a piece of legislation and gain support to have a bill passed that will help many people in a particular way.
I have been a legislator for the past seven years, RI State Representative District 56 (Lincoln and Pawtucket). Like other state representatives, I am available to help my constituents. Recently, I assisted in passing a law that helped many families and small businesses. It all started with a hairdresser who called me and shared her story and how she wanted to support children and adults with special needs.
I asked her to explain her idea, and she said that she realized that when some children and adults with special needs visit a hair salon for a haircut or styling, the noise, the number of people, and the environment can be overwhelming for them.
Upon researching Rhode Island law, she discovered that it was against the current statute to enter someone’s home and perform salon services. She did more research and also looked into how other states handle situations. Next, she submitted a bill through me that would allow stylists to enter people with special needs’ homes to provide hair salon services.
She saw the need and had a desire to make a change. She reached out to her representative and senator for assistance. Taking the time to advocate through social media, television, recruiting like-minded supporters, testifying at the State House, and meeting with her State Representative all made a difference.
The hair salon bill passed the first year it was introduced.
A RI small business owner recognized a need and took action to address an important issue.
Yes, you can do it too! Team up with your local Representative and Senator and make it happen.
Representative Mary Ann Shallcross Smith
District 46 (Lincoln and Pawtucket)
Mary Ann Shallcross Smith, Ed.D. is a Rhode Island State Representative in District 46 (Lincoln & Pawtucket) and the Founder of Dr. Day Care Learning Center, Kids Klub, Therapeutic Child Care Services, and Child Care Consultants & Facilities Management. Mary Ann frequently goes by the nickname “Dr. Day Care” and you can contact her any time – connect with her on social media by visiting https://linktr.ee/maryannshallcrosssmith