Rep. Earl Read

Authorizes the appropriation of the sum of $1,000,000 for the continued purchase, cancellation and forgiveness of medical debt consistent with section 35-4-21.1 of the General Laws.

Extends provisions of an existing collective bargaining agreement for municipal police arbitration purposes until a successor agreement is reached or an interest arbitration award is rendered.

Provides that all contractual provisions in a firefighters collective bargaining agreement continue until a successor agreement has been reached or an interest arbitration award has been rendered.

Requires municipalities to report to the RI department of housing regarding single-family low- or moderate-income housing available to rent/own. Information to be made available to the public on the department's website and emailed to interested parties.

Establishes a restricted receipt account at the DLT for hospitality industry workforce training grants, funded by an annual $50 dollar fee to be charged by RIDOH to food service establishments.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a ceremonial resolution celebrating "URI Day" at the Rhode Island State House on April 1, 2025. It formally recognizes the University of Rhode Island (URI) for its role as a research university and economic contributor, highlighting its educational programs and partnerships. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to URI's president but does not create new laws, funding, or obligations. It affects URI by publicly honoring its contributions, with no direct impact on state residents or policy.

Prohibits individuals from conveying items to or from the training school for youth without prior consent by the executive director of the division of youth development at the department of children, youth and families.

Extends the voluntary extension of care (VEC) program pursuant to § 14-1-6 to children in the juvenile justice system and children who attain reunification prior to their eighteenth (18th) birthday, however, the reunification is not successful.

Maddy summaryHB 5345 extends foster care support for youth aging out of state custody until age 21, primarily affecting young adults who were in foster care on their 18th birthday. The bill requires courts to develop transition plans at least six months before age 18, covering housing, health insurance, education, and employment support. Youth may voluntarily extend care until 21 if they are in school, training, employed (80+ hours monthly), or have documented medical needs preventing these activities. It also allows courts to retain jurisdiction for pandemic-impacted youth under federal funding requirements and for those with serious emotional or developmental needs. The law aims to provide stability during critical transition years while maintaining court oversight.

Amends powers/duties of the office of the health insurance commissioner to increase total cost of care for services reimbursed under contracts after risk adjustment that exceeds the Consumer Price Index for all Urban Consumers percentage increase.