Rep. Mary Ann Shallcross-Smith

Maddy summaryHB 7291 establishes the Rhode Island Early Care and Education Workforce Data Act to create a statewide registry for staff working in licensed child care and early learning programs. This system is designed to collect and maintain data on educator demographics, qualifications, and annual turnover rates while also connecting workers with professional development opportunities. The bill requires the Department of Human Services to implement this registry by July 1, 2025, and to publish annual reports on workforce characteristics starting in January 2026. By codifying a previously funded initiative into state law, the measure ensures consistency in data collection to support policy decisions and strategic investments in the early education sector.

Establishes the Rhode Island lake management program within the department of environmental management to aid with lake and pond management issues relating to the control of aquatic invasive plants.

Implements a grant program to fund public or private partnerships that provide opportunities for healthcare paraprofessionals to pursue higher education degrees and health professional licensure.

Amends the law consistent with the advent of iGaming and new technology. It also codifies the payment of investigatory expenses incurred by the State in limited circumstances.

Allows victims of sexual assault to submit a medical forensic exam performed by a licensed health care provider in lieu of a police report in order to establish eligibility for funds under the State Crime Victim Compensation Program.

Maddy summaryHB 7013, known as Ryan's Law, amends existing regulations to give licensing boards the authority to fine healthcare professionals who overprescribe controlled substances and cause deaths. The bill establishes a tiered fine system where a first offense incurs no monetary penalty, while subsequent offenses can result in fines up to $1,000 for the second charge and $5,000 for each additional charge. Most notably, the law mandates a minimum three-year probationary period for any licensee found guilty of overprescribing that results in death, during which further related violations could lead to license suspension or revocation. Additionally, the act allows boards to assess administrative costs for disciplinary proceedings, capped at $5,000, and requires the Department of Health to create rules guiding how these sanctions are applied.

Maddy summaryHB 7015 clarifies which electrical services require a state contractor's license, directly affecting businesses and individuals who install, maintain, or service electrical systems. The bill updates legal definitions to explicitly include work on support systems for electrical equipment, fire alarms, and lightning protection while excluding low-voltage wiring for heating and cooling units. It mandates that licensed contractors carry their licenses on-site and display their license numbers on advertisements and contracts, with an exemption for single-family owner-occupied homes. Additionally, the legislation establishes specific license categories for specialized roles such as burner contractors, fire alarm contractors, and renewable energy professionals.

Prohibits hospitals and other medical providers from reporting medical debt to consumer reporting agencies. A violation of this chapter may be pursued on behalf of the consumer by the attorney general.

Allows the healthcare facility to conduct human-subject research on patients subject to 21 C.F.R. Pt 50 and/or 45 C.F.R. Pt 46 (relating to the informed consent of human subjects).

Makes various amendments to the authorization of gaming credits and the regulatory agreement involving Bally's corporation and affiliates to increase Rhode Island's competitiveness in the gaming industry.