Sue Sosnowski

Virginia Susan Sosnowski is a Democratic politician currently serving as a member of the Rhode Island Senate, representing the 37th District, which includes the towns of South Kingstown and New Shoreham. Born on December 20, 1955, she has been an active figure in Rhode Island politics since her election to the Senate in 1996. In addition to her legislative responsibilities, Sosnowski is also the owner and operator of Sosnowski Farms, a family-run agricultural business located in West Kingston.

Early life and career

Sosnowski was born Virginia Susan Arnold to Herbert L. Arnold and Virginia (King) Arnold. She completed her secondary education at Chariho High School, graduating in 1973. Following high school, she pursued further education and earned an associate degree from the Ocean State Business Institute in 1982. Her early career included various roles in retail and agriculture. From 1980 to 1984, she worked in retail sales at Fleming's Department Store in Wyoming, Rhode Island. Subsequently, she transitioned to agricultural work, serving as a sod harvester at Green Valley Turf Farm from 1984 to 1988, and later as a manager and supervisor at Laurel Brook Farm from 1984 to 1990.

In 1984, Sosnowski and her husband, Michael, became co-owners and operators of Sosnowski Farms, where they employ organic farming techniques. Her involvement in local governance began with her appointment to the Planning Board of the Town of South Kingstown, where she served for six years. This experience laid the groundwork for her entry into state politics.

Legislative service

Sosnowski's political career began when she was first elected to the Rhode Island Senate on November 5, 1996, representing the 6th District. She won the election by defeating the incumbent Democratic senator Edward F. Holland. Initially a member of the Republican Party, Sosnowski switched her party affiliation to the Democratic Party during the 1998 legislative session. In the subsequent election, she ran as a Democrat and successfully defeated her Republican challenger, Martha A. Stamp.

Following a reconfiguration of Senate districts that reduced the number of members from 50 to 38, Sosnowski was elected to represent the newly established 37th District in 2002. She has continued to serve in this capacity, being reelected multiple times, including a notable victory in 2010 against Independent challenger Kevin R. O'Neill.

Throughout her tenure, Sosnowski has held various positions within the Senate. From 2001 to 2007, she served as the Senate appointee to the Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Council, where she contributed to the oversight of coastal management policies. From 2007 to 2010, she was appointed as Rhode Island's Legislative Commissioner to the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, further emphasizing her commitment to environmental issues.

Currently, Sosnowski holds the position of Chairwoman of the Senate Committee on Environment & Agriculture. She is also a member of several other committees, including the Senate Committee on Finance, the Senate Committee on Government Oversight, and the Senate Committee on Health & Human Services. Her legislative roles reflect her focus on a range of issues pertinent to her constituents and the state of Rhode Island.

Policy focus and district

Sosnowski's legislative work has centered around various policy areas, particularly those affecting the environment, agriculture, and public health. One of her notable legislative initiatives involved amending the "good time" law, which allows for the early release of convicted criminals based on good behavior. Her proposed amendment aimed to exclude certain serious offenses, such as murder and sexual assault, from eligibility for early release. This amendment received significant support in the Senate, passing with a substantial majority.

In addition to criminal justice reform, Sosnowski has also focused on healthcare access for children with disabilities. She co-sponsored Senate Bill S2755, which sought to provide relief for uninsured children with disabilities who do not qualify for Medicaid due to income restrictions. This legislation was designed to ensure that families could access necessary healthcare services without being forced to remain in low-income brackets.

Sosnowski's district, the 37th, encompasses the towns of South Kingstown and New Shoreham, areas that reflect a mix of suburban and rural characteristics. As a representative of this district, she has been involved in various community initiatives and organizations. Her personal commitment to agriculture and sustainability is evident in her active participation in groups such as the Northeast Organic Farming Association, the Richmond Grange, and the South Kingstown Farmer's Market Association. Additionally, she is involved with the Wakefield Rotary and the Rhode Island Nursery and Landscape Association, indicating her dedication to both local economic development and community service.

Through her legislative service and community involvement, Sosnowski has established herself as a prominent figure in Rhode Island politics, advocating for policies that align with the needs and interests of her constituents. Her background in agriculture and local governance has informed her approach to legislation, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices and community engagement. As she continues her service in the Rhode Island Senate, Sosnowski remains focused on addressing the challenges faced by her district and the broader state.