Sets a clear and enforceable standard for reducing the presence of harmful metals in personal care products, prioritizing public health through testing, labeling, and the development of safer alternatives.
Maddy summaryHB 7214 prohibits pharmacies, distributors, and sellers from charging "unreasonably excessive" prices for vital prescription drugs during declared market shortages. It defines "vital drugs" as those treating serious or life-threatening conditions with no available alternatives, and "market shortage" as inadequate supply meeting demand. Violators face felony charges, up to five years in prison, and $10,000 fines for intentionally exploiting shortages. The law requires governors to declare shortages via executive order, with penalties applying only to prices grossly above pre-shortage levels in the local area.
Prohibits a healthcare provider from requiring patients to provide electronic payment information to be kept on file as a condition to receiving treatment and makes it a violation a deceptive trade practice.
Establishes a two-year pilot program, from January 2027 to December 2028, to incorporate equity impact statements into the legislative process for both the House and Senate chamber.
Requires mandatory training standards for police officers and trainees, in identifying, responding, and handling all incidents involving any person with a developmental disability.
Allows a pregnant member or member that has given birth in the past six (6) months to appear remotely and permits any member that participates in a meeting remotely to vote at that meeting, provided that the meeting is held in person.
Maddy summaryHB 7237 establishes a permanent 11-member joint committee (6 from the House, 5 from the Senate) to oversee Rhode Island's Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF). This committee will monitor DCYF's operations, consult with relevant agencies, and submit annual reports and recommendations to the legislature. All future bills or resolutions related to DCYF must be referred to this committee for review. The bill does not change DCYF's policies or funding but creates a new procedural mechanism for legislative oversight. It takes effect upon passage.
Permits every municipality in the state to offer a homestead tax exemption of up to 20% of assessed value on residential properties, and also provides that municipalities that grant greater exemptions not be limited by this section.
Provides modifications for payments of interest on student loans shall be subtracted from federal adjusted gross income to an amount equal to the payments of interest for the satisfaction of outstanding student loans.
Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (HR 7260) passed by the Rhode Island House of Representatives on January 22, 2026, to express condolences on the passing of Anthony DeLuca. It honors DeLuca, a former Cranston City Council President, Rhode Island state representative (1981-1986), educator, and advocate for same-sex marriage equality. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to his widow, Sylvia DeLuca, and family. As a non-binding tribute, it does not create new policies or affect any legislation.
