Rep. Justine Caldwell

Maddy summaryThis bill requires health insurers to cover and pay for specific infused prescription drugs that are administered by doctors or clinics, rather than refusing payment just because the drug was dispensed at the treatment site. The law defines these drugs as those that patients cannot safely give themselves and mandates that insurance reimbursement rates for these drugs match the rates paid to preferred pharmacies. Additionally, the bill directs the state health insurance commissioner to study how these payments are calculated after 2025 and report findings to the legislature by early 2026. By amending laws related to accident and sickness insurance, nonprofit hospitals, and medical service corporations, the measure ensures that patients receive necessary treatments without facing insurance denials based on where the drug is dispensed.

Provides that supported decision-making pursuant to chapter 66.13 of title 42 be added to the Limited Guardianship and Guardianship of Adults forms section as one of the less restrictive alternatives to guardianship that have been explored.

Requires the department of environmental management to promulgate by rule, a list of "furbearers" for purposes of the furbearing animals chapter of the general laws.

Outlines the process for a person petitioning to change their name in the probate court in the town or city where they reside. It would also make the statute regarding name change gender neutral.

Requires written acknowledgment from any buyer of oceanfront or shoreline property that they have been informed of the public's rights and privileges of the shore.

Makes revisions to the number, timing, and procedures to be followed when schools grades K through 12 implement fire drills, evacuation drills, and crisis response drills, designed to protect the health and safety of students.

Maddy summaryHB 7053 expands the ability of individuals with felony convictions to have certain misdemeanor offenses removed from their criminal records. Under this bill, a person convicted of one felony and one or more misdemeanors can apply to expunge the misdemeanor charges, provided they have not committed a crime of violence and have paid all related court fees. Additionally, the legislation allows for the expungement of up to six misdemeanor convictions for those who have not been convicted of a felony. Eligibility requires applicants to wait a specific number of years after completing their sentences, demonstrate good moral character, and show no new arrests or convictions during that waiting period. The court retains discretion to grant or deny the request based on whether the individual has been rehabilitated and if expungement serves the public interest.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates the rules for Rhode Island's Higher Education Opportunity Incentive Grant, which provides financial aid to youth who have been in state foster care. The primary changes expand eligibility to include young people who entered care as young as 14 and extend the age limit for receiving funds until their 23rd birthday, provided they remain full-time students. To qualify, applicants must have spent at least six months in foster care after turning 14 and must graduate from high school or receive an equivalent diploma. The program covers tuition, fees, room, and board at the state's three public colleges and universities, with specific provisions also created for workforce development training.

Requires safe storage of firearms/provides civil and criminal penalties for violations/adds rifles and shotguns to the types of firearms requiring a trigger lock to be included with purchase/requires firearms dealers post signs regarding safe storage

Maddy summaryHB 7757 reduces the number of members on Rhode Island's scenic roadways board from eleven to nine. The bill adjusts the appointment process so that the governor, with Senate approval, selects four public members instead of six, while retaining one representative each from the Department of Transportation, the Department of Environmental Management, and the Historic Preservation Commission, along with two additional members appointed based on recommendations from Grow Smart Rhode Island and the Rhode Island Builders Association. This change also lowers the quorum requirement for board meetings from six to five members and clarifies that board members serve without compensation. The legislation takes effect immediately upon passage and applies to future appointments, with existing members serving out their current terms.