Amends the current law on health insurance coverage for fertility diagnostic care, standard fertility preservation services, and fertility treatment and requires coverage for any medically necessary ovulation-enhancing drugs and medical services.
Maddy summaryHB 7536 requires health insurance companies in this state to cover specific pharmacist services that would otherwise be covered if provided by physicians, nurse practitioners, or physician assistants. It mandates coverage for services like medication management, immunizations, patient evaluations, and lab test ordering without requiring physician supervision or referrals. Health plans must include pharmacists in their medical provider networks (not just pharmacy drug networks) and cover these services both within and outside their networks when local providers aren't available. The law takes effect January 1, 2027, and expires January 1, 2031, unless extended by the legislature.
Maddy summaryThis House Resolution (HR 7827) commemorates the 182nd anniversary of Dominican Republic Independence on February 27, 2026, recognizing the contributions of Rhode Island's Dominican community (approximately 54,000 residents) and Dominican-Americans to the state's economy, civic life, and military service. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies to the President of the Dominican Republic and the Dominican-American Association. It does not create new laws or alter policies but serves as a ceremonial acknowledgment of historical ties and community impact.
Maddy summaryHB 7688 establishes the Rhode Island Child Care for All Act, creating a new Office for Early Learning by June 2028 to centralize and improve the state’s child care system. It directly affects families with young children (by reducing costs to under 7% of income), child care providers (through annual funding to cover costs beyond family fees), and early educators (by requiring wage supplements to match K-12 standards). Key provisions include consolidating child care administration from other agencies, funding providers to expand affordability and quality, and developing a statewide system offering free pre-K for 3- and 4-year-olds alongside accessible care for children from birth to age 12. The bill aims to address current market failures by treating child care as a public good, similar to K-12 education.
Maddy summaryThis bill is a ceremonial resolution designating February 7-14, 2026, as "Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week" in Rhode Island. It does not create new laws or policies but formally recognizes the impact of congenital heart defects - such as septal defects or hypoplastic left heart syndrome - on newborns and families. The resolution urges Rhode Island citizens to observe the week and acknowledges medical efforts to improve outcomes for affected children. As a procedural resolution, it has no direct policy impact beyond raising awareness.
Requires as part of the director of administration’s report to the general assembly to include information on the number of hybrid, combustion engine, plug-in hybrid, and ZEV vehicles in the light duty fleet. This act would take effect upon passage.
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 summaryThis bill is a ceremonial resolution designating February 2-6, 2026, as "National School Counseling Week" in Rhode Island. It recognizes school counselors' roles in supporting student development, career exploration, and collaboration with parents and educators. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to the Rhode Island School Counselor Association president, with no new policies, funding, or obligations created. It solely serves to honor the profession through symbolic recognition during the specified week.
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.
