Requires that any private short-term disability insurance (STDI) carrier that bids to provide coverage to Rhode Island state employees must cover all eligible employees, regardless of age.
Allows eligible individuals serving sentences of imprisonment to seek sentence reductions from the superior court, individuals serving life without parole or minimum mandatory sentences pursuant to law, would not be eligible for such relief.
Requires the state, and private insurers that cover prescription hormone therapy, to dispense twelve (12) months’ worth of the prescription as a single prescription.
Require that routine childhood and adult immunization vaccine recommendations that are developed from evidence based, medically sound scientific research by the department of health.
Maddy summaryHB 7627 extends early intervention services under Rhode Island's Part C program for children with special health care needs whose third birthday falls between May 1 and August 31. This change prevents a service gap by allowing these children to remain in early intervention until September 1 after their third birthday, bridging to preschool services. The bill directly affects families of children with developmental disabilities born in this window, ensuring continuity of care without interruption. It aligns with federal law allowing states to extend such services and requires the state to implement this by January 2028, following a 2026 plan development phase.
Expands the DCYF powers by overseeing and administer comprehensive behavioral health services for children with serious emotional disturbances and children with developmental or functional disabilities.
Maddy summaryHB 7970 requires all locksmiths in Rhode Island to obtain a license and pass a criminal background check before practicing. This bill directly affects locksmiths seeking to legally work in the state. The key provisions mandate licensing as a condition for employment and require background checks to verify applicants' criminal history. The bill was introduced on February 27, 2026, and referred to the House Labor Committee.
Establishes an opportunity for employee ownership where the owner notifies all current full-time and part-time employees and provides them with a 30-day window in which to initiate a process to potentially purchase the business as a workers' cooperative.
Establishes the Healthy Kids Act whereby restaurants would be required to offer at least two (2) healthy versions of children's meals, or twenty-five percent (25%) of the children's meals on its menu, whichever is greater.
Maddy summaryThis bill designates March 27, 2026, as "Good Food Policy Day" in Rhode Island to recognize the annual event organized by the Rhode Island Food Policy Council. The resolution highlights the council's work in promoting local food production, ensuring access to healthy and affordable food, and supporting community health initiatives. It also formally acknowledges the council's leadership team for their efforts in food advocacy and policy development. The House of Representatives authorizes the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of this resolution to the council's executive director.
