Rep. Matthew Dawson

Maddy summaryThis resolution honors Representative Brianna Henries for her service to the people of East Providence, Pawtucket, and the State of Rhode Island. It recognizes her legislative work on issues such as housing, minimum wage, and affordable healthcare, as well as her personal commitment to helping those facing homelessness. The House of Representatives formally acknowledges her achievements and directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to her.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates the state's Unfair Claims Settlement Practices Act to provide consumers with stronger protections against specific unfair behaviors by insurance companies. It directly affects policyholders, claimants, and auto body repair shops by explicitly defining a broader range of actions as unfair, such as delaying claim investigations, refusing to pay without a reasonable explanation, and coercing consumers into using specific rental car companies. Key provisions mandate that insurers must respond to claims within thirty days, conduct physical inspections for vehicles with damage over $2,500, and honor requests to pay directly to a customer's chosen repair shop or rental agency. Additionally, the legislation prohibits insurers from unilaterally modifying repair manuals or refusing to pay documented charges based on industry-standard software for auto body work.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates June 12, 2024, as Women Veterans Appreciation Day in Rhode Island to honor the service of women in the U.S. military. The resolution recognizes the historical contributions of female service members, from the American Revolution to modern combat roles, and aims to show appreciation for their sacrifices. It directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to the State of Rhode Island Office of Veterans Services and the Rhode Island Veterans Home.

Amends the provision of notice to be provided for the release of any hazardous gas or liquid as determined by the federal Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration.

Requires school districts to provide the parent/guardian of a student with an individualized education program (IEP) with information concerning the achieving a better life experience (ABLE) account program benefits and the program application process.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution that expresses condolences for the death of Louis M. Pulner, a prominent Rhode Island attorney and former town solicitor. It acknowledges his professional achievements, including his work prosecuting drunk driving cases and his long service as Solicitor for the Town of Barrington, as well as his personal life and family. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the document to Pulner's surviving family members, including his wife, children, and sister.

Clarifies the statute of limitations for all causes of action not otherwise time barred that seek damages arising out of or related to the design/construction/supervision/or inspection of the Washington Bridge No. 700, located in East Prov. RI.

Increases insurance coverage for hearing aids from one thousand five hundred dollars to one thousand seven hundred fifty dollars, per ear, for all people regardless of age.

Criminalizes the filing of a false lien, instrument, or encumbrance against a federal, state, or municipal judge or magistrate or his or her immediate family, and permits the court to take action to mitigate the negative consequences of such a filing.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies the rules for mandatory arbitration in motor vehicle liability claims by raising the minimum claim amount that triggers the process. Specifically, it requires arbitration for disputes involving damages of $50,000 to $100,000 or less, whereas previous thresholds may have been lower. The legislation mandates that insurance contracts include these arbitration provisions and requires drivers to agree to them when applying for or renewing their licenses. If a claim falls within the new monetary range, parties must submit the matter to an arbitrator selected from a court program, though either side can still reserve the right to a jury trial within 60 days of the award.