Rep. Katie Kazarian

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial House Resolution (HR 7061) expressing condolences for Arthur Armand Coia, a former Laborers International Union (LIUNA) leader and Providence attorney. The resolution formally extends "deepest sympathy and condolences" to his family, including his wife, children, and grandchildren, following his passing. It has no policy impact or legislative effect - it is a non-binding expression of respect for his life and legacy. The resolution was passed by the Rhode Island House on January 13, 2026.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial House resolution (HR 7062) passed by the Rhode Island House of Representatives on January 13, 2026, to express condolences for the passing of Josephine B. Finnegan. It formally extends "deepest sympathy and condolences" to her family - specifically her children Rosemary Finnegan and Kevin Finnegan - and directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to them. The resolution contains no policy changes or funding; it solely serves as a symbolic tribute to her life and legacy.

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.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes "Main Street Rhode Island," a program managed by the nonprofit Grow Smart RI for three years to coordinate revitalization efforts in the state's commercial districts (downtowns, village squares, and retail corridors). It authorizes $500,000 in funding to implement a proven national strategy, including training for local communities, monthly educational sessions, and a centralized resource hub. The program aims to boost economic activity, job creation, and neighborhood development by connecting existing local efforts through standardized best practices. It formalizes a partnership between Grow Smart RI and Main Street America, with the Commerce Corporation handling fund disbursement.

Provides standards for developing, implementing, and maintaining reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect the security, confidentiality, and integrity of customer information.

Maddy summaryHB 5494 adds consumer protections to Medicare Supplement Insurance Policies in the state. It prohibits policies from duplicating Medicare benefits and bans exclusions for preexisting conditions after six months of coverage, defining preexisting conditions as those requiring medical advice within six months before coverage begins. The bill guarantees issue rights for applicants under 65 with disabilities or end-stage renal disease (without medical underwriting) and requires annual guaranteed issue for all Medicare Part A/B enrollees during a one-month enrollment period. The commissioner must establish regulations for policy standards, premium rates, and loss ratios to align with federal requirements.

Changes the process by which a dispute between the insured and their insurance company, concerning property damages and requires that the umpire appraisers shall be disinterested and the cost shared equally.

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.

Makes numerous technical corrections related to insurance, provides a definition for "cybersecurity insurance", and would repeal the chapter relating to reciprocal exchanges and interinsurers.