Rep. Jennifer Stewart

Maddy summaryHouse Bill 6240 expands the provisions for limited registrations for dentists and establishes new limited registrations for dental hygienists. For dentists, it broadens the conditions under which a limited registration is granted, allowing practice in affiliated clinics and introducing a "special registration" after ten years of limited practice. This special registration allows dentists to practice in private offices accepting RIte Care without direct supervision, provided they split their time between an institution and the private practice. Additionally, the bill creates limited registration pathways for dental hygienists who are graduates of accredited programs, advanced dental students, or graduates of accredited dental colleges.

Directs the department of elementary and secondary education to provide a two-year pilot program that coordinates a national cultural exchange program for students of this state.

Prohibits state or municipality from contracts to detain individuals for civil immigration violations, and if such contract exists, it must end by July 1, 2026 and prohibits using public resources to detain those individuals.

Maddy summaryHB 5499 strengthens Rhode Island's Medicare supplement insurance (Medigap) rules to improve access for eligible residents. It prohibits insurers from denying coverage or charging more based on health status (including preexisting conditions) for applicants under 65 with disabilities or end-stage renal disease, and guarantees issue rights for Plan A during annual enrollment. The bill also requires the state insurance commissioner to set standards for policy terms, premiums, and claims handling, while banning medical underwriting for certain applicants. These changes directly affect Rhode Island Medicare beneficiaries (ages 65+ or under 65 with qualifying disabilities) and insurers selling Medigap policies in the state. The law takes effect January 1, 2026.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a symbolic resolution designating April 2025 as "Second Chance Month" in Rhode Island. It recognizes the importance of helping people with criminal records reintegrate into society, citing barriers like employment discrimination and housing restrictions. The resolution does not create new laws or funding but publicly supports efforts to provide second chances. It directs the Secretary of State to share the resolution with organizations supporting formerly incarcerated individuals. This is a commemorative measure, not a policy change.

Maddy summaryHR 6227 is a ceremonial resolution passed by the House on April 10, 2025, to formally commend specific individuals and organizations for their achievements or service. It honors retirees (like Diane Davis-Marley of Homeland Security), high school athletes (15 members of Ponaganset High School Girls Basketball), veterans (including Vietnam War service members), community groups (like the RI Hispanic Chamber of Commerce), and local volunteers (such as resident council organizers). The resolution has no legislative effect - it expresses recognition but does not create new laws, alter policies, or impose obligations. This is a standard procedural resolution for public acknowledgment, not substantive legislation.

Maddy summaryThis is a Rhode Island House resolution (not legislation), urging federal lawmakers to address concerns about Medicare Advantage (MA) plans. It calls for transparency measures, stricter marketing rules, and redirecting funds from MA plans to strengthen Traditional Medicare. The resolution highlights issues like higher costs for enrollees, narrower provider networks, and profit-driven practices by MA insurers, but does not create new laws. It specifically recommends actions for Congress and federal agencies, such as requiring MA plan audits and prohibiting practices that prioritize corporate profits over patient care.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution, not a policy bill. It expresses the Rhode Island House of Representatives' condolences to the families of 35 deceased state representatives, officials, and community members listed in the resolution. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to transmit a memorial to the bereaved families. As a procedural measure, it has no policy impact or legislative effect beyond this symbolic gesture of respect.

Creates the home-fit dwelling units act to apply to all new construction of covered dwelling units to incorporate design features that provide safe and convenient use of to the greatest extent feasible, regardless of age or physical ability.

Establishes a new article in the state building code that provides that certain new housing construction contain at least one floor that meets the requirements for a Type C "ANSI'' Standards for Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities.