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signed · Rhode Island · Senate Jul 2, 2025

SB 576: AN ACT RELATING TO MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES -- MISCELLANEOUS RULES

Provides additional exception to prohibition on usage of wireless communication device while driving and clarifies that use for purpose of navigation must be while the device is mounted or otherwise affixed to vehicle and not held in the motorist's hand.
Mark McKenney (D) David Tikoian (D) John Burke (D) Sue Sosnowski (D) Lou Raptakis (D)
signed · Rhode Island · House Jul 2, 2025

HB 5569: AN ACT RELATING TO INSURANCE -- PET INSURANCE ACT

HB 5569 creates a new regulatory framework for pet insurance in the state, directly affecting pet owners who purchase policies and insurers who sell them. The law requires insurers to clearly disclose all exclusions (such as preexisting conditions, hereditary disorders, or chronic illnesses) and key policy terms like waiting periods, deductibles, and coverage limits before sale. It also mandates a 15-day "free look" period during which buyers can return policies for a full refund if unsatisfied, and requires clear explanations of how claim payments are calculated. The bill does not change coverage types but ensures transparency and standardized disclosures to help consumers understand what their policies cover and exclude.
Joseph Solomon (D)
signed · Rhode Island · Senate Jul 2, 2025

SB 816: AN ACT RELATING TO ELECTIONS -- DECEPTIVE AND FRAUDULENT SYNTHETIC MEDIA IN ELECTION COMMUNICATIONS

SB 816 prohibits candidates, campaigns, PACs, and independent spenders from distributing AI-generated or manipulated videos, audio, or images (deemed "deceptive synthetic media") in election communications within 90 days of an election. It requires clear, visible disclosures if such media is used (e.g., text in large font for videos, spoken announcement for audio), with exemptions for news outlets, satire, and platforms protected under federal law. The bill directly affects election campaigns, political committees, and entities making independent expenditures, while allowing candidates to seek legal action for violations. It does not restrict general news reporting, satire, or security-related uses of synthetic media.
Walter Felag (D) Matt LaMountain (D) Mark McKenney (D) David Tikoian (D) Pete Appollonio (D)
signed · Rhode Island · Senate Jul 2, 2025

SB 235: AN ACT RELATING TO EDUCATION -- THE ESTABLISHMENT OF SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT TEAMS

Requires the school board or committees of cities and towns to establish a safety and behavioral health committee and also lays out the representation requirements committee responsibilities to ensure a stable learning environment for all students.
Matt LaMountain (D) Lammis Vargas (D) Pete Appollonio (D) Hanna Gallo (D) Alana DiMario (D)
signed · Rhode Island · House Jul 2, 2025

HB 6399: AN ACT RELATING TO MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES -- REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES

HB 6399 extends a temporary rule allowing nonprofit groups that sponsor special vehicle license plates to reduce their minimum initial order from 600 to 150 sets per plate type. This change, which was set to expire December 31, 2025, will now continue indefinitely. The bill directly affects nonprofit organizations that create cause-related or charity license plates by lowering their upfront financial commitment. It does not change the $30 per plate fee or the requirement for nonprofits to pay a nonrefundable fee for orders below 600 sets.
Joseph Solomon (D) Earl Read (D) David Bennett (D) Evan Shanley (D) Joseph McNamara (D)
signed · Rhode Island · Senate Jul 2, 2025

SB 238: AN ACT RELATING TO LIBRARIES -- THE FREEDOM TO READ ACT

SB 238, the "Freedom to Read Act," prohibits public libraries and school libraries from removing or restricting materials based on the creator's identity (race, gender, sexuality, etc.) or viewpoint. It defines censorship narrowly, excluding only obscene material (per legal standards) or content deemed developmentally inappropriate by recognized authorities like the ALA. The law requires libraries to adopt policies ensuring challenged materials remain available during review, establish formal reconsideration processes with 30-day timelines, and mandate written justifications for removals. These rules apply directly to public library boards, school committees, and librarians managing collections across the state.
Bob Britto (D) Mark McKenney (D) Hanna Gallo (D) Alana DiMario (D) Victoria Gu (D)
signed · Rhode Island · House Jul 2, 2025

HB 5506: AN ACT RELATING TO LABOR AND LABOR RELATIONS -- LABOR RELATIONS ACT -- EMPLOYEE FREE SPEECH RIGHTS

Protects the rights of employees in the workplace relating to free speech, assembly and religion, as well as attendance at employer-sponsored meetings regarding political or religious matters.
Alex Finkelman (D) Bill O'Brien (D) Doc Corvese (D) Brandon Potter (D) Robert Craven (D)
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