Rep. Anthony DeSimone

Maddy summaryHB 6135 allows a Class B liquor license for a specific property at 1039 Douglas Avenue in Providence by amending proximity restrictions. It exempts this location from standard rules that typically prohibit liquor sales within 200 feet of schools, churches, or other sensitive areas. The bill directly affects the property owner at that address by enabling them to legally sell alcoholic beverages there. This is a targeted exception for one location, not a broad policy change.

Restricts private vehicle property damage insurance coverage for a rental passenger vehicle, to the named insured and drivers on that private policy, unless the designated driver is specifically excluded.

Makes it an unfair claims practice for insurer to designate a motor vehicle a total loss if the cost to repair motor vehicle to its pre-accident condition is less than 75% to 80% of the fair market value.

Requires the rule adopting agency to send a copy of the certified rule to all members of the general assembly, within twenty (20) days of filing a final rule.

Provides additional exception to prohibition on usage of wireless communication device while driving and clarifies that use for purpose of navigation must be while the device is mounted or otherwise affixed to vehicle and not held in the motorist's hand.

Expands the definition of "employee," and clarifies that the board may defer a pending unfair labor practice charge to allow for the grievance and arbitration process to move forward pursuant to the charging parties collective bargaining agreement.

Requires the board of regents to adopt support and intervention strategies consistent with Comprehensive Education Strategy and SALT in one district at a time.

Adds a definition for "co-living housing" to the zoning ordinance provisions of the general laws and would include such housing as a special provision to be included in a zoning ordinance.

Maddy summaryHB 5633 allows pharmacists to dispense a one-time refill of certain medications for up to 100 days to help patients continue essential therapy when a doctor isn't immediately available or the patient lacks a current prescriber. It applies only to non-controlled medications critical for chronic conditions (like diabetes or heart disease), where stopping treatment could cause serious health issues, and requires pharmacists to notify the prescriber within seven business days. The bill specifically excludes controlled substances (Schedules II-V) and mandates that pharmacists use professional judgment to assess health risks. It takes effect on July 1, 2025, and directly affects patients with ongoing medical needs and pharmacists managing prescription access.

Maddy summaryHB 6242 updates Rhode Island's firearm exemption law to replace "Rhode Island state marshals capitol police" with "capitol police" in two sections of the General Laws. This change directly affects Capitol Police officers, ensuring they are explicitly listed as exempt from certain firearm restrictions while on duty. The bill makes a technical correction to the legal language defining which law enforcement personnel can carry concealed weapons without restriction. It does not alter the actual firearm rules or expand exemptions - it only updates the agency name in the statute. The bill became effective June 26, 2025, without requiring governor approval.