Rep. Jason Knight

Maddy summaryHB 5275 would implement ranked choice voting (RCV) in primary elections for state representative and state senator when three or more candidates run. Voters would rank candidates in order of preference (1st, 2nd, 3rd, etc.) instead of choosing just one candidate. If no candidate receives a majority of first-choice votes, the candidate with the fewest votes is eliminated in rounds, with their votes transferred to the next-ranked candidate on each ballot until one candidate achieves a majority. This change applies only to general assembly primary elections, not general elections, and takes effect January 1, 2026.

Maddy summaryHB 5332 establishes the Rhode Island Special Deposits Act, creating a legal framework for "special deposits" held in bank accounts for specific purposes. It defines key terms like "account agreement" (a written contract between a bank and depositor/beneficiary), "beneficiary" (the person entitled to funds), and "contingency" (an event triggering payment). The act sets rules for when banks must pay beneficiaries (only after a stated contingency occurs and the bank knows about it) and outlines how agreements can be amended without beneficiary consent under certain conditions. This directly affects banks, individuals or entities setting up these deposits (e.g., for escrow, security deposits, or benefit payments), and the beneficiaries named in the agreements.

Prohibits an educational institution or school district from accessing or using location data for tracking a student's institutional device or personal device, except in limited circumstances.

Requires the state building commissioner to implement electronic permitting for any category of state or local permit authorized under state law to significantly impact the expediency of construction and development.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial House resolution (HR 6105), not a substantive bill. It formally congratulates the Bryant University Men's Basketball Team for winning the America East Regular Season Championship, America East Tournament Championship, and earning a berth in the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament. The resolution specifically recognizes the team's 23-11 record, their tournament victories (including a 20-point championship game win), and individual honors for players like Earl Timberlake and coach Phil Martelli Jr. As a non-binding resolution, it has no policy impact and serves solely to acknowledge the team's athletic achievements.

Maddy summaryHB 5865 bans the sale of cosmetics in Rhode Island that were developed or manufactured using animal testing conducted on or after January 1, 2026. It directly affects cosmetic manufacturers and sellers within the state, imposing a $1,000 fine per violation for noncompliance. The law includes limited exemptions, such as when animal testing is required by federal or state regulators with no non-animal alternatives, or for ingredients in widespread use with no suitable substitutes. The bill amends existing cruelty-to-animals statutes to add this specific prohibition, focusing on the sale of cosmetics rather than testing itself.

Maddy summaryHB 5646 adds individuals aged 70 or older to the list of people eligible to request exemption from jury service in Rhode Island. It directly affects residents of Rhode Island who are 70 years or older and receive a jury summons. The bill amends existing law to allow these individuals to formally decline jury duty by claiming the exemption, rather than being automatically exempt. This change applies to all Rhode Island courts and civil procedures involving jury selection.

Maddy summaryHB 5433 amends Rhode Island's Health Care Reform Act to strengthen oversight of health insurance. It requires the health insurance commissioner to hold quarterly public meetings on insurer rates and services, establish an advisory council with consumer and business representatives to address small business insurance affordability, and analyze the impact of merging individual and small-employer insurance markets. The advisory council must produce annual reports on topics like provider fee transparency, claim processes, and data on quality and costs to help consumers make informed choices. These provisions directly affect health insurers, small businesses, and healthcare providers by increasing accountability and transparency in insurance regulation.

Maddy summaryHB 5626 requires most health insurance plans in the state to cover FDA-approved contraceptive drugs, devices, and related services without cost-sharing (like copays or deductibles). It directly affects individuals with health insurance plans by mandating coverage for specific methods - including emergency contraception, long-acting prescriptions (up to 12 months), sterilization, counseling, and follow-up care - while excluding male condoms and oral contraceptives without therapeutic equivalents. Insurers must cover at least one FDA-approved option per method category without cost-sharing, though they may offer multiple options with cost-sharing if one remains free. The law excludes experimental treatments and Medicare supplemental plans, and ensures coverage applies equally to spouses and dependents.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial House resolution expressing condolences to the family of Michael Charles Gerhardt, a former Rhode Island healthcare executive and community leader, following his death. The resolution cites his professional career (including roles at Blue Cross & Blue Shield of RI and nonprofit organizations), community service (on local boards and the Warren Land Trust), and personal life. It directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies to Gerhardt’s wife, two sons, and stepsons. As a non-binding resolution, it does not create policy changes or affect any specific group beyond the family receiving the expression of sympathy.