Rhode Island Bills

died · Rhode Island · House Feb 11, 2026

HB 7521: AN ACT RELATING TO INSURANCE -- FIRE INSURANCE POLICIES AND RESERVES

Amends Rhode Island's standard fire insurance policy by codifying uniform, transparent appraisal procedures and payment obligations that reflect contemporary claim-handling practices while preserving long-standing consumer protections.

died · Rhode Island · House Feb 11, 2026

HB 7488: AN ACT RELATING TO HEALTH AND SAFETY -- ABUSE IN HEALTHCARE FACILITIES

Removes the intent requirement relative to the definitions of "abuse" within the chapter on "abuse in healthcare facilities" and amends the definitions of "abuse" and "neglect" with regard to elderly affairs by deleting the element of willful conduct.

Topics ✓ Healthcare

died · Rhode Island · House Feb 11, 2026

HB 7548: AN ACT RELATING TO COURTS AND CIVIL PROCEDURE -- PROCEDURE GENERALLY -- EVIDENCE

Provides that statements by a health care provider regarding the unanticipated outcome of a patient's medical care and treatment shall be inadmissible as evidence of an admission of liability or as evidence of an admission.

died · Rhode Island · House Feb 11, 2026

HB 7567: AN ACT RELATING TO TAXATION -- LEVY AND ASSESSMENT OF LOCAL TAXES -- TAX DEFERRAL PROGRAM

This bill establishes a property tax deferral program for Rhode Island senior citizens (62+), disabled residents (as determined by the Social Security Administration), and disabled veterans (as determined by the Veterans Administration). Eligible homeowners can delay paying property taxes on their primary residence (including manufactured homes) until the property is sold, transferred, or upon the death of all owners, with 6% annual interest added to the deferred amount. The program excludes properties with reverse mortgages or less than 20% equity, and the state will fund it with $2 million annually starting in fiscal year 2027. Local tax collectors must report deferral claims by January 31 each year, and deferred taxes become a lien on the property.

Topics ✓ Budget & Taxes ✓ Housing ✓ Veterans

died · Rhode Island · House Feb 11, 2026

HB 7517: AN ACT RELATING TO COURTS AND CIVIL PROCEDURE -- PROCEDURE GENERALLY -- CAUSES OF ACTION

Strengthens consumer protections in insurance claims by expanding definitions of unfair claims settlement practices and clarifies an insured’s right to pursue bad-faith remedies.

died · Rhode Island · House Feb 11, 2026

HB 7549: AN ACT RELATING TO CRIMINAL OFFENSES -- ASSAULTS

HB 7549 makes assaulting a sports official (such as an umpire, referee, or coach) during their duties a felony, directly affecting anyone who commits such violence at any athletic event - from school games to professional leagues. The bill establishes two penalty tiers: a standard assault carries up to 3 years in prison or a $3,000 fine, while assault causing serious bodily injury (like permanent disfigurement or life-threatening harm) results in 3-20 years in prison or a $10,000 fine. It also mandates that offenders pay restitution to victims or complete up to 500 hours of community service, in addition to any fines or prison time. This law applies to assaults occurring before, during, or after any sporting event.

Topics ✗ Criminal Justice

died · Rhode Island · House Feb 11, 2026

HB 7515: AN ACT RELATING TO COMMERCIAL LAW--GENERAL REGULATORY PROVISIONS -- DECEPTIVE TRADE PRACTICES

HB 7515 clarifies definitions related to deceptive practices in insurance claims to strengthen consumer protections. It directly affects claimants (policyholders, businesses, or third parties seeking insurance payments) and insurers (companies handling claims). Key provisions define terms like "insurance claim handling services" and explicitly list deceptive acts, such as misrepresenting repairs, hiding rebate details in ads, or falsely advertising claim settlements. The bill does not create new penalties but provides clearer standards for enforcing existing laws against misleading insurance practices. It takes effect January 1, 2026, with a temporary amendment effective until March 31, 2026.

died · Rhode Island · House Feb 11, 2026

HB 7516: AN ACT RELATING TO COURTS AND CIVIL PROCEDURES -- PROCEDURE IN PARTICULAR ACTIONS -- ARBITRATION

Strengthens consumer protections in insurance claims by improving the fairness and timeliness of arbitration and appraisal proceedings, and preventing insurers from delaying or obstructing the dispute resolution process.

died · Rhode Island · House Feb 11, 2026

HB 7487: AN ACT RELATING TO ANIMALS AND ANIMAL HUSBANDRY -- DOGS

Increases penalties for a second or subsequent offense with a fine of not less than $500 or no more than $2,500 and up to 2 years imprisonment, for violating the law on the care of dogs.

died · Rhode Island · House Feb 11, 2026

HB 7552: AN ACT RELATING TO CRIMINAL OFFENSES -- THREATS AND EXTORTION

Adds school superintendents, central office officials, school principals, and all other school employees, to the definition of a “public official” for purposes of the criminal prohibition against making threats to public officials.

died · Rhode Island · House Feb 11, 2026

HB 7044: AN ACT RELATING TO PROPERTY -- HOMELESS BILL OF RIGHTS

HB 7044 establishes an 11-member committee to develop regulations for homeless shelters in Rhode Island. The committee, including homeless individuals, advocates, shelter providers, and housing officials, will draft standards covering access policies, residents' rights, health and safety protocols, and emergency operations. These regulations will ensure shelters provide non-discriminatory services, prohibit fees, protect privacy, and maintain safe environments for residents. The bill does not immediately implement rules but creates a process for developing them through the committee's recommendations.

Topics ✓ Housing

died · Rhode Island · House Feb 11, 2026

HB 7161: AN ACT RELATING TO EDUCATION -- TEACHERS' RETIREMENT

Increases monthly minimum benefit for a spouse, domestic partner, former spouse. Grant a 2.89% COLA for eligible retirees. Provided a modification reducing federal AGI for public pension benefits from the RI employees retirement system.

Topics ✓ Labor & Employment

Bill results