Rep. Edith Ajello

Maddy summaryHB 5902 prohibits property owners from including restrictions that prevent grocery stores or supermarkets from operating on land designated for selling fresh food for off-premises consumption. It allows exceptions only if a closed store relocates within one-half mile within one year, maintains similar product offerings, and meets specific timing requirements. Existing agreements made before the law's effective date remain valid. The bill takes effect immediately upon passage and applies to new property agreements.

Maddy summaryHB 5572 amends the Unfair Claims Settlement Practices Act to require insurers to use standard industry software (like Mitchell's RMC) for vehicle damage appraisals and pay repair shops based on documented charges from that system. It directly affects car insurance claimants and auto body repair shops by guaranteeing consumers the right to choose their repair shop or rental car company (via "direction to pay" forms) and preventing insurers from arbitrarily discounting charges. Key provisions include mandating unaffiliated appraisals for damage over $2,500, requiring insurers to pay for manufacturer-recommended repair procedures, and banning insurers from using altered or incomplete appraisal systems. The bill aims to standardize fair compensation for repairs while giving consumers more control over their claims process.

Prohibits an educational institution or school district from accessing or using location data for tracking a student's institutional device or personal device, except in limited circumstances.

Provides that no city or town may issue a permit for the construction of new buildings, that are not an all-electric building, if the initial application for a permit was submitted after December 31, 2026, unless certain circumstances apply.

Requires a housing code enforcement officer to give a copy of any housing code violation notice to all tenants of the building affected by a housing code violation along with any hearing dates scheduled for the violation.

Maddy summaryHB 5577, the "2025 Utility Company Billing Transparency Act," requires large electric and gas distribution companies (with over 100,000 customers) to provide clear explanations of charges on consumer bills, addressing confusion about costs like fees and taxes. It mandates that these companies file proposals with the Public Utilities Commission detailing how they will implement revenue decoupling - ensuring they aren’t incentivized to increase sales to boost profits - and includes annual reconciliation for revenue over- or under-recovery. The bill also requires companies to submit annual infrastructure and safety spending plans for commission review, aiming to align costs with service reliability. These changes directly affect major utility providers like Rhode Island Energy and aim to help residential customers better understand and manage their energy costs.

Provides that any rate increase with respect to electric distribution companies would be no greater than the increase in the Consumer Price Index or 5.5%, whichever is greater, unless there is approval of a higher rate by the general assembly.

Redefines “farm” by reducing the amount of revenue from farm products required to be sold from ten thousand ($10,000) to two thousand five hundred dollars ($2500).

Establishes an intervenor support program to provide compensation for an intervenor who makes a substantial contribution to a proceeding resulting in a decision favorable to the interest of utility consumers.

Maddy summaryHB 5597 requires schools with HVAC systems to meet specific indoor air quality standards. It mandates the Department of Health to establish recommended levels for temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide, and particle levels (PM2.5/PM10), while the Department of Education must conduct school air quality inspections every five years using a skilled workforce. Schools must install MERV 13 air filtration where feasible and report deficiencies in capital improvement plans. The bill directly affects all public schools with HVAC systems, ensuring air quality data is shared online with principals, school boards, and the education department. Key provisions include mandatory filtration standards, regular inspections, and public transparency of results.