Permits a tenant, at the tenant’s expense, to implement energy conservation measures to any dwelling or dwelling unit such as removable weather-stripping around doors and windows.
Amends several statutes relating to elections and the dates for primaries and dates within which to file nomination papers and object to nomination papers.
Removes the age restriction for benefits coverage and requires, for health insurance policies issued or renewed on or after January 1, 2026, that coverage must include reimbursement for applied behavior analysis provider services.
Modifies the real estate sales disclosure form to include the disclosure of “blower door diagnostic air leakage testing” and advises that air leakage testing is recommended prior to purchasing a residential unit.
Requires that the division of planning create a checklist of environmental and energy issues that state construction projects which cost in excess of $10,000,000 would need to consider.
Maddy summaryHB 5166 prohibits Rhode Island from licensing any new high-heat waste facilities, including incinerators, gasifiers, and advanced recycling plants that process waste at temperatures above 400°F. The bill defines such facilities broadly to cover processes like pyrolysis, depolymerization, and gasification used for converting waste, plastics, or recovered materials into fuels or chemicals. It directly affects developers and companies seeking to build new facilities of this type in the state. The prohibition would take effect immediately upon the bill's passage, applying to all new construction and operation permits.
Extends the range of a school zone for purposes of school-zone-speed-enforcement systems from one-quarter (1/4) mile to three-quarters (3/4) of a mile.
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.
Creates rodent integrated pest management pilot programs for municipalities. That choose to participate. Reports would be approved by the municipality's mayor or administrator and would be submitted to the department of environmental management.
Maddy summaryHB 5949 amends Rhode Island zoning law to require all towns and cities to "affirmatively further fair housing" in their zoning ordinances. This means municipalities must actively promote equitable housing access for specific groups, including seniors, workers, students, people with disabilities, veterans, and historically marginalized communities. The bill adds a new requirement (section 17) that zoning codes must address housing needs across income levels and protect against discrimination based on protected characteristics like race or disability. It specifically mandates consideration for affordable housing options for low-, moderate-, and very-low-income households, as well as accessible housing for seniors and people with disabilities. This change applies to all zoning ordinances and requires municipalities to update their codes within 12 months of implementation.
