Rep. Teresa Tanzi

Creates a publicly funded program for uninsured individuals requiring on an appropriation of $53,200,000 for fiscal year 2027 and an appropriation of 109,600,000 for fiscal year 2028 and every fiscal year thereafter.

Establishes a universal, comprehensive, affordable single-payer health care insurance program and help control health care costs, which would be referred to as, "the Rhode Island Comprehensive Health Insurance Program" (RICHIP).

Submits the state's 2026 capital development program requesting the issuance of general obligation bonds totaling one hundred million dollars ($100,000,000) for approval of the electorate at the general election to be held in November, 2026.

Directs the general assembly to fund ten full time equivalent positions in FY 2027 to support DEM's efforts in the areas of forestry and forestry projects.

Permits healthcare professionals to diagnose and treat patients remotely with store-and-forward technology when provision of services in such manner is consistent with the standard of care.

Maddy summaryHB 7273 requires the state to join and implement the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact by July 1, 2026. This allows out-of-state doctors to more easily provide telemedicine services to patients within the state, expanding access to remote healthcare. The bill specifically enables patients to receive telemedicine care from licensed providers in other states through the compact. It also directs health agencies to create necessary rules for this process, directly affecting healthcare providers seeking multi-state practice and patients seeking remote medical care.

Maddy summaryHB 7274 allows physician assistants (PAs) to practice without needing a physician's direct supervision and permits them to receive Medicaid payments directly for services provided. The bill amends licensing rules to remove the requirement for written agreements with supervising physicians and clarifies that PAs can provide medical services within their scope without physician oversight. It also adds a new provision requiring Medicaid to pay PAs directly, rather than through a physician's billing, for services rendered. This affects PAs by expanding their practice autonomy and Medicaid patients by potentially increasing access to care from PAs. The changes take effect upon passage.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution from Rhode Island that officially recognizes the celebration of the Cambodian New Year and the Year of the Horse on April 13-15, 2026. It highlights the holiday's traditions, such as family gatherings, gift-giving to elders, and temple visits, while expressing appreciation for the Cambodian community's contributions to the state's culture. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to the President of the Cambodian Society of Rhode Island.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House Resolution that officially celebrates the 100th anniversary of the Enrico Caruso Society in Manville, Rhode Island, on April 18, 2026. The resolution recognizes the organization's century-long history of providing support to Italian immigrants and fostering community through events and services. It directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to the society's president, Jack Correira, as a formal acknowledgment of their contributions.

Maddy summaryThis bill honors Thrive Behavioral Health, Inc. on its 50th anniversary and recognizes its contributions to mental health care in Rhode Island. The resolution acknowledges the organization's history, its merger in 2018, and its role in providing comprehensive behavioral health services. It directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to the organization's president and CEO.