Provides that the commissioner of elementary and secondary education directs all local education agencies to select one of the identified high-quality curricula and materials for science and technology no later than June 30, 2026.
Directs RIHousing to work with stakeholders to investigate and determine ways to assist an incorporated homeowners' association to exercise rights to purchase leased land.
Amends the definitions of a “pupil transportation vehicle” to a vehicle contrasted to seat not more than ten (10) passengers plus the operator, rather than the existing limit of eight (8) passengers.
Maddy summaryHB 5108 allows foreign-trained physicians to obtain a temporary license to practice medicine in Rhode Island under specific conditions. It directly affects physicians who graduated from medical schools outside the U.S., require ECFMG certification, completed residency training abroad (accredited by ACGME-I or recognized international bodies), and have held an unrestricted license in another country for at least three years. The law requires these physicians to work under a participating healthcare facility that provides structured training and assessment to address clinical gaps, while maintaining oversight through the Board of Medical Licensure. This creates a formal pathway for qualified international physicians to contribute to Rhode Island's healthcare workforce under defined safeguards.
Maddy summaryHB 5598 requires all public schools in the state to create and implement a written policy restricting student use of personal electronic devices (like smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches) during school hours and school activities. The policy must aim to reduce distractions, support learning, and protect student privacy and safety, while explicitly allowing exceptions for students needing assistive technology under IEPs/504 plans, medical devices (e.g., glucose monitors), or language support programs. Schools must develop these policies in consultation with staff representatives, notify parents, and file them with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, which will provide annual guidance. The law takes effect on August 1, 2026.
Maddy summaryHB 6060 extends the authorization for licensed physical therapists to order diagnostic imaging (like X-rays or MRIs) beyond the original December 31, 2025, sunset date. The bill modifies existing law to permanently remove the expiration date, allowing physical therapists to continue this practice without further legislative action. It maintains existing requirements, including reporting imaging results to a patient’s primary care physician within seven days (if one exists) and mandating annual utilization reports from healthcare plans to the legislature. This directly affects physical therapists and their patients by preserving current clinical authority.
Amends the audit compliance requirements for municipalities' contributions to pension plans under the budget of accounts and installation of systems chapter.
Maddy summaryHB 6298 proposes three charter amendments for Warwick, pending voter approval in 2026. It would allow electronic notice for special council meetings (replacing current in-person/residence-only notice), raise the small procurement threshold from $2,500 to an adjustable amount via city ordinance (affecting purchasing decisions under $2,500), and require the city council to establish via ordinance how minority party members are appointed to city boards/commissions (using a list provided by the minority party leader). If approved by voters, these changes would take effect, streamlining meeting notifications, giving the council flexibility on procurement rules, and formalizing minority representation on boards. The bill passed both chambers and became law without the governor's signature but requires voter approval for the charter changes to take effect.
Maddy summaryHB 6320 requires that in the city of Warwick, the tax rate for Class 1 property (typically residential) cannot be less than 57% of the tax rate for Class 2 property (typically commercial). This establishes a fixed ratio between the two property classes, ensuring Class 1 rates are proportionally lower but not arbitrarily set. The bill directly affects property owners in Warwick, as it governs how local property taxes are classified and applied by the city assessor. It applies retroactively to the December 31, 2024, property assessment and became law without the Governor's signature on June 18, 2025.
Details each of those limited emergency circumstances where a registered nurse and advanced practice registered nurses, may safely administer sedation, such as critical life-saving or emergency situations where there is an imminent threat to life or limb.
