Rep. Mary Ann Shallcross-Smith

Maddy summaryHB 7498 allows driver education schools in Rhode Island to offer required driver training courses either in-person or through instructor-led virtual classes for a two-year period (October 2026 to October 2028). This applies specifically to applicants under 18 seeking their first driver's license, as they must complete the course before receiving a permit or license. The bill maintains existing course requirements, including 33 instructional hours covering Rhode Island traffic laws, alcohol/drug effects, and graduated licensing rules, but permits virtual delivery during the trial period. It also mandates the state education board to compare virtual and in-person course outcomes and report findings by December 2028.

Commencing July 1, 2026, this act eliminates the provision of this section that requires new applicants for employment under this section to pay the expense for their criminal background checks.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial House Resolution expressing condolences for Ruth Ann Desmarais, a dedicated 11-year employee of the Rhode Island House of Representatives and legal secretary at Al DiFiore Law Office. It formally extends the House's deepest sympathy to her family, including her daughter Susan Thompson and husband Mark. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to her family. It passed unanimously on February 5, 2026, with no substantive policy changes or affected parties beyond the expression of mourning.

Maddy summaryHB 7276 prohibits insurance companies from requiring copays, deductibles, or other cost-sharing for specific breast examinations. It directly affects individuals with health insurance who need diagnostic exams (to evaluate breast abnormalities) or supplemental exams (for high-risk screening based on medical history). The law requires all group and individual health insurance plans to cover these exams without out-of-pocket costs. The bill takes effect January 1, 2027.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates January 30, 2026, as "Fred Korematsu Day of Civil Liberties and the Constitution" in Rhode Island. It commemorates Fred Korematsu, who challenged the WWII internment of Japanese Americans, and encourages Rhode Islanders to reflect on civil liberties and constitutional rights. The resolution has no policy impact - it is purely commemorative, recognizing Korematsu's legacy and promoting civic education through an upcoming public event. It was passed by the Rhode Island House on January 29, 2026.

Prohibits the division of motor vehicles from placing on a motorist's driving record, a traffic violation which fine has been paid no longer than thirty (30) days after its issuance. This procedure would only be utilized twice per year.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates July 2025 as "Fragile X Awareness Month" in Rhode Island. It recognizes Fragile X Syndrome as the most common inherited cause of intellectual disability and autism, affecting over 100,000 Americans. The resolution urges Rhode Islanders to raise awareness, share information, and support research and families impacted by Fragile X Syndrome. It directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies to the National Fragile X Foundation and Little Rhody Warriors. (Note: This is a symbolic resolution, not a bill with policy changes.)

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution expressing condolences for Raymond J. Turbitt, a Rhode Island educator and community member who taught mathematics for many years and was involved in marine archaeology. It formally mourns his passing and directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to his wife, Judith "Sharon" Turbitt. The resolution has no policy provisions or effects on laws or regulations. It is a purely ceremonial gesture honoring Turbitt's life and contributions.

Provides that certain Hmong or Lao veterans who served honorably in military operations in support of the United States as special guerrilla units be granted burial rights at the Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a ceremonial resolution celebrating "Physician Anesthesiologists Week" in Rhode Island from January 25-31, 2026. It recognizes physician anesthesiologists for their role in patient safety during surgeries, labor, pain management, and care for Veterans, highlighting their extensive training and the "Anesthesia Care Team" model. The resolution urges all citizens to acknowledge their contributions and directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to the American Society of Anesthesiologists. As a commemorative measure with no binding policy changes, it does not affect legislation or funding.