Rep. Sherry Roberts

Maddy summaryHB 5608 removes all regulatory limits on harvesting blue crabs in the state, directly affecting commercial and recreational crab harvesters. The bill eliminates existing rules, quotas, or restrictions on blue crab harvesting while maintaining that only state residents may harvest them. Key provisions replace current regulations with a simple statement: "There shall be no limit, rules or regulations, restricting the harvesting of blue crabs." The bill would take effect immediately upon passage, with no new restrictions on crab harvesting beyond the residency requirement.

Requires verification of an applicant's date of birth and either a Rhode Island driver's license number or state identification number on all applications seeking mail ballots and emergency mail ballots.

Requires verification of an applicant's date of birth and either a Rhode Island driver's license number or state identification number on all applications seeking mail ballots and emergency mail ballots.

Changes primary election to Wednesday if after Labor Day and does not mandate local boards of election to have voter registration drive at high school.

Maddy summaryHB 5856 prohibits employers, schools, landlords, and other entities from requiring COVID-19 vaccinations, testing, or mask mandates without offering specific opt-outs. Individuals can decline mandates based on medical reasons (including pregnancy), religious or personal beliefs, proof of immunity via lab tests, willingness to undergo regular testing, or using employer-provided protective equipment. The law applies to relationships like employment, education, housing, and healthcare, requiring entities to provide exemption forms and allowing complaints to the attorney general if exemptions are denied. Violations may result in fines up to $50,000 per incident for larger organizations.

Maddy summaryHB 5430 prohibits health insurance plans from requiring copays, deductibles, or coinsurance for diagnostic and supplemental breast examinations. It applies to all group and individual health insurance plans covering these services, directly affecting insured individuals who need these exams. The bill defines "diagnostic" exams as those evaluating abnormalities found during screening, and "supplemental" exams as risk-based screenings for high-risk individuals without abnormalities. Insurance companies must cover these services without out-of-pocket costs for enrollees. The law takes effect January 1, 2026.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (HR 6083) passed by the Rhode Island House of Representatives to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the federal Sport Fish Restoration Program. It recognizes anglers, the sportfishing industry, state fish and wildlife agencies, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for their role in creating and sustaining the "American System of Conservation Funding." The resolution has no policy or funding impact - it solely expresses appreciation for the program's historical contributions to fisheries conservation. It does not affect any individuals, agencies, or legislative procedures.

Maddy summaryHB 5880 requires the state auditor general to conduct annual performance audits of all state agencies, examining their effectiveness, efficiency, and compliance with laws (including equal employment and minority business rules). This directly affects all state agencies, such as departments and boards, but excludes legislative branch entities and public utilities. Key mechanisms include mandatory exit conferences with agency officials, written responses to audit findings within 60 days, and annual reports to the legislature detailing audit results and agency responses. The bill mandates these audits begin January 1, 2026, with the auditor general reporting non-compliant agencies to the governor and legislative leaders each year.

Provides specific language for signs to be posted at certain establishments notifying people of contact information to the national human trafficking resource center.

Expands the lobbying reform act to apply to persons who lobby municipal government executives and legislative bodies, as well as local fire districts.