I am a native Rhode Islander, first elected to the Rhode Island House of Representatives on November 3, 1992. I serve as a member of House Finance and House Rules Committees, and I also Chair the Legislative Aquaculture Commission, the Bay Trust Commission, and the Special Commission to Develop and Promote a Comprehensive Plan for Visually Impaired and Blind Children.
Outside of my direct legislative committee assignments, I serve on the Rhode Island Coastal Resource Management Council, the Agriculture and Land Preservation Commission, the Rivers Council, the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission and the RI Economic Policy Council. My community service includes the Board of Directors for: Warwick Chamber of Commerce, the Warwick Historical Society, the Warwick Arts Foundation, the Gaspee Days Committee, the Conimicut Village Association, the Ocean State Lyric Opera, TechACCESS, and the Ocean State Business Development Corporation. I am also working with the Council of State Governments on a variety of leadership issues for the nation. My focus in government and public service has been centered about a 4’E theme: Education; Environment; Economy; and Engagement.
My husband is William C. (Bill) Naughton, a retired US Army Lt. Colonel, who has served 21 years in the military. We have been stationed in various NATO bases in Germany and Italy, and in stateside posts in San Antonio and El Paso, Texas. Bill is currently an owner of a dental practice in Pawtucket. As a member of a household that derives most of our family income from a small business, we know the concerns of small business owners; we, too, must research and comply with regulatory requirements, meet tax obligations and provide our long-time professional staff with competitive compensation and benefits.
We reside on historic Lockwood Brook Farm which was established in 1640s, and we still raise sheep and other livestock on the farm to maintain its historic usage. We have a daughter, Christine, and a son, William, and four grandsons. I graduated from St. Mary's Academy, Bay View, Annhurst College, and Southern New England School of Law.
I have devoted my time, expertise and experience throughout my lifetime toward public service. During the 2004 session of the General Assembly, I’ve championed the Stroke Prevention and Treatment Act, Freedom of Choice for Pharmacy Act, the Sherlock Act for Special Education and Early Intervention for Children, the Special Commission legislation for blind and visually impaired children, and Bay Trust legislation.