Amends what is considered sexual abuse for purposes of limitations on actions based on sexual abuse or exploitation of a child and would amend the provisions for when a cause of action may be brought.
Maddy summaryHB 7837 allows dental hygienists working in public-health settings - such as schools, nursing homes, and community health centers - to receive reimbursement from insurance companies or Medicare, not just Medicaid. Currently, these hygienists could only be paid by Medicaid or state healthcare programs, but the bill removes that restriction. This change expands payment options for preventive dental services provided in community settings without altering the requirement for a written agreement with a dentist or patient consent forms. The bill directly affects dental hygienists and public-health facilities by enabling broader insurance coverage for their services.
Ends transaction fees for school lunches in all districts. This act requires at least one no-fee payment method for school lunches and a full disclosure whether fees will be charged by a payment platform.
Maddy summaryHB 7726, the Solar Cost Reduction Act, streamlines permitting for residential solar installations by creating a statewide automated platform. It requires municipalities to adopt a "smart solar permitting platform" that instantly issues permits for compliant applications (like rooftop solar systems under 25 kW) without manual review, while banning additional engineering documentation for eligible projects. Homeowners and installers benefit from faster permits, electronic submissions, and remote inspection options by 2027, while municipalities retain authority over local fees and retain all permit revenue. The bill also establishes a public repository of all local solar ordinances to standardize requirements across the state.
Gives statewide juvenile hearing boards the authority to refer a juvenile offender to a rehabilitative driving course, as part of a disposition of an offense before the board. The order may be enforced by the traffic tribunal.
Makes it unnecessary to prove that a person's transmission of electronic communications be for the sole purpose of harassment before being found guilty of cyberstalking or cyberharassment.
Maddy summaryHB 7789 is a definitional bill that clarifies vehicle classifications in Rhode Island law, primarily affecting owners of antique vehicles, recreational vehicles, and new mobility devices. It defines terms like "antique motor car" (vehicles over 25 years old, restricted to exhibitions/limited use without full inspection), "camping recreational vehicle," and "electric personal assistive mobility device" (EPAMD, limited to 15 mph). The bill does not create new rules but standardizes existing terminology for registration, operation, and safety requirements. It directly impacts vehicle owners, registrants, and law enforcement by establishing clear categories for enforcement and compliance. As a procedural definitions bill, it has no operational changes beyond clarifying existing code provisions.
Maddy summaryThis bill, known as the Family Caregivers Support Act of 2013, aims to protect employees who care for family members from discrimination in the workplace. It makes it illegal for employers to refuse to hire someone, fire them, or penalize them in any way because of their caregiving duties. The law also requires employers to consider requests for flexible schedules or remote work to handle medical appointments and therapy, unless doing so would cause significant difficulty or expense for the business. Small businesses with fewer than 25 employees have some flexibility if they can prove that meeting these requests would be too burdensome. If a caregiver believes their rights were violated, the Human Rights Commission is authorized to investigate and order remedies such as reinstatement, back pay, and compensation.
Creates a fourteen (14) member special legislative study commission to study the use and impact of digital and electronic technology in public education and on mental health.
Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution that honors the Girl Scouts of Southeastern New England for their work in empowering girls through leadership and service. It recognizes the organization's efforts, including transforming Camp Rocky Farm into a maritime facility and supporting STEM and environmental programs for thousands of youth in Rhode Island. The resolution formally expresses gratitude to the group and directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to the organization's CEO.
