Amends the House rules to mandate that all lobbyists vacate the House floor twenty (20) minutes prior to the beginning of the scheduled House session.
Requires any remaining funds in the enacted budget from the RI promise scholarship program or the RI hope scholarship program, after Rhode Island college has satisfied all eligible scholarships to be reimbursed to onward we learn.
Adds school superintendents, central office officials, school principals, and all other school employees, to the definition of a “public official” for purposes of the criminal prohibition against making threats to public officials.
Includes licensed school psychologists under the provisions of the general laws governing the regulations of psychologists and expands the licensing of school psychologists for independent practice.
Limits prior authorization requirements for rehabilitative and habilitative services. Also prohibits prior authorization for the first twelve (12) visits of a new episode of care and for ninety (90) days following a chronic pain diagnosis.
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 summaryHB 7333 creates the Rhode Island Broadband Oversight and Accountability Act of 2026 to remove legal barriers preventing state oversight of broadband services. It repeals a prior law that effectively banned Rhode Island from monitoring or regulating broadband performance, requiring the Commerce Corporation to develop a broadband office plan. This office would map coverage, monitor service quality, identify unserved areas, coordinate federal broadband funds (like BEAD), and ensure transparent reporting. The bill directly affects all Rhode Island residents and businesses relying on broadband for essential services like healthcare, education, and government access. It establishes concrete mechanisms for managing public broadband investments and meeting federal requirements for ongoing performance tracking.
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 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.
Maddy summaryHB 7022 requires businesses to clearly inform customers when they charge a credit card surcharge or fee. Starting January 1, 2027, businesses must post conspicuous notices at the point of sale (or on restaurant menus) stating the surcharge amount or percentage. Failure to provide this notice would be considered an unfair or deceptive trade practice under existing law. The bill directly affects businesses that impose credit card payment fees, ensuring customers are aware of these costs before completing transactions.
