Rep. David Bennett

Maddy summaryHB 5172 requires health insurers in Rhode Island to be transparent and accountable when using artificial intelligence to manage coverage and claims. It mandates insurers to publicly disclose their AI algorithms and data, maintain records for five years, and notify enrollees when AI is used in coverage denials or reductions. Insurers must involve licensed healthcare professionals - not just AI - to review adverse decisions on medically necessary care and continuously monitor for discrimination or privacy violations. This law directly affects all Rhode Island health insurers and their enrollees by creating enforceable standards for AI use in claims management.

Maddy summaryThis is a symbolic House Resolution (HR 6143), not a legislative bill with policy changes. It formally congratulates the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) women's basketball team for winning the NJCAA Region XXI Conference championship for the fourth consecutive year and earning a berth in the 2025 NJCAA Division III National Tournament. The resolution highlights their 24-6 record, 13-0 conference dominance, and key players like Stephanie Walker and Angelisse Melendez. It directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to the team's head coach, Doug Haynes, as a ceremonial recognition of their athletic achievement.

Maddy summaryThis ceremonial resolution declares March 27, 2025, as "Good Food Policy Day" in Rhode Island. It recognizes the Rhode Island Food Policy Council (RIFPC) and specific council members for their work promoting local food systems, affordable nutrition, and food business support. The resolution has no policy or funding changes - it is purely a symbolic acknowledgment by the state legislature. It does not create new laws or obligations for residents, businesses, or government agencies.

Limits copays, coinsurance or office deductibles for services of a physical therapist to the amount authorized for the services of a primary care physician or osteopath on or after January 1, 2026.

Provides the review and appeal process for individuals applying for a permit or license to carry a handgun with the licensing authority or attorney general.

Maddy summaryHB 5933 allows any person aged 18 or older who holds a valid license or permit to carry a stun gun. This bill specifically amends existing weapons laws to include stun guns under the same permit requirements as other weapons, meaning licensed individuals 18+ can now legally carry them in public. The change directly affects permit holders aged 18 and older, expanding their legal ability to carry stun guns without additional restrictions. The bill does not change age limits for other weapons or create new licensing requirements, only clarifying that stun guns fall under existing permit rules.

Proposes an amendment to the State Constitution, Article IV, Section 1, that would allow four (4) year terms for general assembly members, commencing with the 2028 election.

Provides that enhanced penalties for possession of fentanyl shall only be applicable if the substance contains \ at least ten percent (10%) of fentanyl or its analogs.

Expands meaning of bomb threats and false reports to include any warning or threat of the existence of an explosive device and allows judge to impose conditions of bail to include extreme risk protection orders, no trespass orders and counseling.

Provides that health clubs must discontinue automatic deductions from the consumer's account or credit card within 30 calendar days of receiving a notice to stop from the consumer.