Increases and reallocates the fees collected for motor vehicle inspections, including motorcycle inspections, with an allocation of ten dollars ($10.00) to the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA).
Maddy summaryThis bill allocates $150,000 in state funding for the second year of the Main Street Rhode Island Program, which supports local downtown revitalization efforts across the state. The money will be managed by Grow Smart Rhode Island and distributed through the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation to help existing and new district cohorts implement community improvement projects. The funding is specifically designated for fiscal year 2027 and must be disbursed by December 31, 2026, to support the program's administration and execution. This appropriation continues the initiative that launched in 2025 with 11 district cohorts representing 10 cities and towns.
Maddy summaryHB 7823 proposes a universal healthcare system called "RICare" that would guarantee all Rhode Island residents access to primary and preventive care through a single public insurance program, replacing the current multi-payer system. The bill creates a unified payment system to consolidate administrative costs, establishes a RICare board and fund for oversight, and requires state agencies to coordinate implementation, including workforce planning for transitions. It directly affects every state resident by ensuring comprehensive coverage regardless of income or pre-existing conditions, while focusing on reducing costs through streamlined administration rather than employer-sponsored insurance.
Allows foreign-trained dentists and dental hygienists to obtain limited licenses if they graduate from reputable dental colleges or universities, work under a supervising dentist, and pass a board-approved exam.
Provides that a defendant's third and subsequent violation of domestic violence offenses, including both prior felony and misdemeanor convictions, would be punishable as a felony.
Submits the state's 2026 capital development program requesting the issuance of general obligation bonds totaling one hundred million dollars ($100,000,000) for approval of the electorate at the general election to be held in November, 2026.
Establishes a restricted receipt account for the benefit of the Rhode Island public transit authority funded by sales taxes collected from ride-share companies; and provided further, the account would be exempt from indirect cost recovery provisions.
Directs the general assembly to fund ten full time equivalent positions in FY 2027 to support DEM's efforts in the areas of forestry and forestry projects.
Permits the family court to award possession of household pets to the plaintiff in a domestic abuse complaint, including the enforcement remedy of a restraining order or other injunctive relief.
Maddy summaryThis bill designates April 9, 2026, as "Rhode Island Home Visiting Day" to highlight the importance of home visiting programs for families. It directly affects parents, children, and the organizations that provide these services, which offer support to pregnant individuals and young families. The resolution encourages residents to recognize these programs as vital resources for healthy child development and directs state officials to send copies of the proclamation to relevant health and human services leaders.
