Amends the statutory provisions regarding domestic and foreign insurers and insurer examinations to provide provisions with regard to cybersecurity events involving Rhode Island consumers.
Maddy summaryThis bill amends Rhode Island state law to exempt the Rhode Island Disaster Medical Assistance Team, Inc. from paying registration fees for its motor vehicles and trailers. By adding this organization to a list of existing exempt entities, the legislation ensures that nonprofit groups providing emergency medical and rescue services do not incur these costs. The change applies only to the specific vehicles owned by the team and does not alter the fee structure for other vehicle owners. The act is set to become effective one year after it is signed into law.
Creates a custody procedure for pets in divorce and separation proceedings based on the best interests of the animal. This act would not apply to assistance/service animals.
Requires that developers of ground-mounted solar systems submit a plan for decommissioning to be held on file by the municipality and requires DEM, with the office of energy resources, make publicly available model decommissioning plans.
Maddy summaryHB 7231, known as the Kratom Consumer Protection Act, establishes a regulatory framework for the sale and distribution of kratom products in Rhode Island to ensure consumer safety. The bill prohibits the sale of contaminated or adulterated products, bans synthetic alkaloids, and restricts packaging that could appeal to individuals under 21 years of age. To enforce these standards, processors and retailers must annually register their products with the Attorney General's office and submit independent laboratory testing results. The legislation also mandates clear labeling regarding health risks and usage instructions, while imposing fines for negligent violations and revoking registration for repeat offenders. Although the bill passed both legislative chambers, it was ultimately vetoed by the Governor.
Makes several amendments relative to manufactured homes, including adding a definition for manufactured home and a provision allowing for certain manufactured homes to be considered a single-family home if on a lot zone for such use.
Provides that effective July 1, 2025, any attorney who self-certifies that they have successfully completed a specialized domestic violence prosecution training course shall have the authority to prosecute any violation of a protective order.
Amends provisions re insurance producer appointments and clarifies language re insurance claims adjusters. Amends the RI life & health guarantee assoc act. Adds insurance data security and pet insurance acts and unfair discrimination prohibitions.
Amends outdated provisions of the banking statutes and the home loan protection act, adds consumer protections, including minimum capital requirements and limits on investments, for currency transmitters, including crypto currency.
Maddy summaryThis bill amends Rhode Island's inclusionary zoning law to require that developments with ten or more units include at least 15% affordable housing for a minimum of 30 years. It allows municipalities to offer density bonuses, such as adding two market-rate units for every affordable unit, or to accept alternative contributions like off-site construction, land donations, or fee-in-lieu payments instead of on-site affordable units. However, projects using these alternative methods are not eligible for the density bonus, and any fees collected must be deposited into restricted accounts to fund new affordable housing within the municipality. The legislation also establishes annual reporting requirements for municipalities and the state to track fee collections and the creation of affordable housing units.
