Rep. Arthur Handy

Maddy summaryHB 7190 requires health insurers in Rhode Island to disclose how they use artificial intelligence (AI) to manage healthcare claims and coverage decisions. Insurers must report AI models, training data, performance metrics, and documentation of AI-influenced decisions to state regulators, and maintain records for five years. Crucially, the bill mandates that any AI-driven denial of medically necessary care must be reviewed and approved by a licensed healthcare provider with the same specialty as the ordering provider before finalization. This directly affects insurers, enrollees (patients), and healthcare providers by adding human oversight to AI decisions on coverage. The law aims to ensure transparency and accountability in AI use for non-administrative coverage decisions, such as denials of medically necessary treatments.

Imposes a tax equal to four percent (4%) on net investment income, such as interest, dividends, annuities, royalties, capital gains and rental income, of high-income households, estates and trusts, based upon federal guidelines.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution, not a policy bill. HR 7829 expresses the Rhode Island House of Representatives' condolences to the family of Carlo Spirito, Jr., a former Cranston City Council member and math teacher, following his passing. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to his wife, Florence Spirito, and family. It has no policy impact or direct effect on any laws, programs, or specific groups beyond this formal expression of sympathy.

Authorizes the department of environmental management to issue and enforce rules and regulations to implement and enforce the provisions of the food waste ban.

Creates legal cause of action for persons/insurers to recover losses resulting from climate disaster against petroleum product producers based upon strict liability for deceptive/false statements as to climate impacts.

Provides that a certificate be provided for every contract for the purchase and sale of real estate certifying that the property has a functioning on-site wastewater treatment system or a sewer connection and not a cesspool.

Allows local government recipients of grant funds from the Rhode Island infrastructure bank's OSCAR fund and resilient Rhode Island infrastructure fund to use monies for insurability planning.

Extends the reporting date of the special legislative commission to study and provides recommendations for the creation of a statewide whole-home repairs program from January 5, 2026, to June 30, 2026, and said commission expires on August 30, 2026.

Maddy summaryHR 7812 is a joint resolution appropriating $3.5 million from the state treasury for the restoration and enhancement of the paved walking path around Meshanticut Lake in Cranston, Rhode Island. The funds will address safety hazards like cracks and uneven terrain caused by wear and weather, with specific focus on resurfacing and structural improvements to ensure safe, accessible access for all users. This directly benefits Cranston residents - over 82,000 people - including park visitors of all ages, local youth athletes from schools like Cranston High School, and individuals with mobility impairments. The resolution authorizes the state controller to release the funds upon proper documentation, aiming to preserve the park as a key recreational resource.

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.