Rep. Rebecca Kislak

Maddy summaryHB 5771, known as "The Rhode Island Medicaid Reform Act of 2008," mandates that the state's Medicaid program provide coverage for fertility diagnostic care, standard fertility preservation services, and fertility treatment. Beginning January 1, 2026, this includes services like medically necessary ovulation-enhancing drugs (up to three cycles), intrauterine insemination, and in-vitro fertilization under specific medical circumstances. The bill also requires that coverage be provided without discrimination based on various personal characteristics. Additionally, it directs the department to report to the general assembly by January 1, 2026, on the medical necessity and funding of in-vitro fertilization under federal law.

Sets controls on Medicaid prescription drug costs by imposing transparency and accountability requirements on managed care organizations (MCOs) and their pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs).

Provides that in local educational agencies when over 45% of the children have a family income that is at or below 185% of federal poverty guidelines then the student success factor will be 50% by the core instruction per-pupil amount.

Removes language that requires the department of elementary and secondary education to prorate funds to school districts in certain situations and eliminate funding for certain programs.

Requires that the state's share to public libraries be fixed at twenty-five percent (25%) of the amount appropriated by the city or town in their budgets for fiscal year 2026.

Maddy summaryBill HB 6072 proposes to establish a child tax credit within Rhode Island's personal income tax system. This credit would allow taxpayers to claim one thousand dollars ($1,000) for each dependent. The bill amends existing state tax laws to incorporate this new credit, directly affecting Rhode Island residents who pay personal income tax and have dependents.

Maddy summaryHR 5234 is a joint resolution proposing to appropriate $500,000 from the state treasury to the United Way of Rhode Island. This funding is designated to provide operational support for the 2-1-1 system. The 2-1-1 service is a free and confidential hotline available to all Rhode Islanders 24/7, connecting them to assistance for needs like housing, childcare, healthcare, food, and utilities. It also serves as a communication resource during state crises and natural disasters.

Provides that evidence of life or work expectancy shall be based on statistical data using blended statistics and shall not be based on race, ethnicity or sex.

Commences July 1, 2025, this act would eliminate the provision of this section that requires new applicants for employment under this section to pay the expense for their criminal background checks.

Would provide children up to age three (3) with continuous coverage eligibility for RIte Track/RIte Care so that they are not at risk of losing coverage at the yearly redetermination due solely to administrative barriers.