Lawson will work to build upon progress in 2027

Valarie J. Lawson is running for re-election to state senate District 14, representing East Providence. She has worked to make a meaningful difference to improve the lives of the residents of East Providence, and all Rhode Islanders.

“Representing our community in the state senate is the honor of my lifetime. It is also a responsibility I take very seriously,” said Senator Lawson. “I have worked to deliver results that make a positive difference for our community. I hope to continue working collaboratively with all parties to make our city and our state an even better place to live and work, and I respectfully ask for your support on November 3.”

Senator Lawson is a lifelong Townie. She taught social studies, history and civics in the city throughout her teaching career, first at Martin Middle School, then at East Providence High School.

First elected in 2018, Senator Lawson has brought significant resources into the city.

In the 2025-2026 term, she:

• Secured a $1.5 million increase in state aid to East Providence schools in 2025, and an additional $2 million this year. Total state aid to East Providence schools today stands at $42.7 million. This is on top of school construction aid that ensures students are learning in modern, 21st century school buildings. These resources ensure students have the support they need to succeed while offsetting the burden on local property taxes;
• Included language in the state budget protecting East Providence taxpayers by shifting funding for Bradley Hospital’s CRAFT Program away from city and to the school districts that send students here; and
• Secured $80,000 this year in state grants to support local community organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club, the East Providence Senior Center, and the East Bay CAP Molar Express.

On a statewide basis, Senator Lawson also:

• Supported created state’s first child tax credit;
• Expanded the tax exemption on Social Security income so that all beneficiaries, regardless of aid, benefit;
• Expanded paid family leave and temporary disability insurance, as well as the wage replacement rate;
• Passed a package of bills each year to address the primary care crisis, including increasing reimbursement rates, ending prior authorization, and creating a state medical school at URI;
• Helped residents struggling with food insecurity by funding Eat Well Be Well program;
• Prohibited junk fees in school lunch programs; and
• Supported elimination of the tangible tax for small businesses.

“My public involvement began while I was teaching, as an active member and leader of the East Providence Education Association. After retiring, I was elected President of the National Education Association Rhode Island. I am fortunate to be able to contribute to improving our community in these ways,” said Senator Lawson. “As a state senator, my first priority is always the residents of District 14, and there is nothing more gratifying to me than helping a neighbor address a concern. I care deeply about our community, and I believe this public service is making a positive difference for the people of East Providence.”

In 2027, Senator Lawson hopes to continue leading efforts to address the health care crisis, particularly the shortage of primary care providers, and she is developing the fourth annual package of bills to strengthen Rhode Island’s health and mental health systems.

In response to the Washington Bridge closure, Senator Lawson retained respected former US Attorney Zachary Cunha to assist in Oversight hearings and bring accountability to RIDOT. As a result of these oversight hearings, she will sponsor legislation in 2027 to require that RIDOT hire in house, qualified engineers and bridge inspectors, so a situation like this never happens again. This builds upon legislation she passed this year requiring an efficiency and performance audit of RIDOT, increasing transparency, accountability, and oversight of the project’s management and spending. The audit report is due in January. Senator Lawson previously led the Senate’s efforts to ensure monthly updates from RIDOT, as well as creation of a small business grant program for those harmed by the bridge closure.

“Working together, with the people of East Providence, in partnership with dedicated advocates on many issues, and with my colleagues across government, I believe that we have accomplished a great deal. But there is still work to do, and I humbly ask for the support of the voters of District 14 to continue that work.”

Senator Valarie J. Lawson
Democrat, District 14, East Providence