STATE HOUSE — Sen. Jacob Bissaillon was sworn into the Rhode Island Senate today by Secretary of State Gregg Amore.

Senator Bissaillon, a Democrat, won a special election held Nov. 7 to represent District 1 in Providence. The district was previously represented for 36 years by the late Senate Majority Whip Maryellen Goodwin.

“I hope to continue Maryellen Goodwin’s legacy in being a voice for the voiceless and a force for the downtrodden in Rhode Island,” said Senator Bissaillon.

Senator Bissaillon is CEO of Justice Assistance, a nonprofit based in Cranston that helps victims navigate the justice system, helps defendants successfully exit it, and helps advocate for system improvements. He previously served the Senate as its chief of staff, has also served as chief of staff to the Providence City Council, and served on the staff of the House of Representatives.