Rep. Susan Donovan

Maddy summaryHR 6019 is a joint resolution proposing to appropriate $1,100,000 for the fiscal years 2025-2026. This funding would be allocated to the Department of Human Services. Its purpose is to provide core funding to sustain and increase access to higher quality early care and education for infants and toddlers.

Maddy summaryHB 5233, "The Rhode Island Family Caregiver Tax Credit Act," creates a state income tax credit for eligible family caregivers. The bill allows a credit of 50% of qualifying expenses, up to a maximum of $1,000, incurred for the care and support of an eligible family member. To qualify, caregivers must meet specific income thresholds and care for a family member who is elderly or disabled, resides with them, and requires assistance with daily activities. Eligible expenses include home modifications, medical equipment, and hired care services, aiming to help offset the financial burden of caregiving. This credit would apply to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 5282, titled "The Education Equity and Property Tax Relief Act," amends how the state calculates funding for special education services provided by local school districts. The bill redefines "extraordinary costs" for individual special education students, which are expenses above a certain threshold. It gradually lowers this financial threshold over three fiscal years, starting in FY 2027, making more special education costs eligible for state reimbursement sooner. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education will also collect data on various cost thresholds.

Maddy summaryHB 6206 establishes the Beverage Container Recycling Act, creating a statewide recycling refund program for certain beverage containers. Under this act, "producers" (brand owners) are responsible for compliance with the program's requirements. It defines various types of "redemption sites," such as "express redemption sites" for virtual account credits and "full-service redemption sites" for immediate refunds, where "consumers" can return eligible empty containers. This system aims to promote the collection and recycling of beverages by providing a financial incentive for returns.

Prohibits an insurer from imposing a requirement of prior authorization for any admission, item, service, treatment, test, exam, study, procedure, or any generic or brand name prescription drug ordered by a primary care provider.

Maddy summaryHouse Resolution 6324 recognizes May 6, 2025, as a "National Day of Reason" in the State of Rhode Island. This resolution encourages citizens, residents, and visitors to observe the day and focus on the importance of reason, critical thought, and free inquiry.

Maddy summaryHouse Resolution 6309 is a commemorative resolution that designates May 6th through May 12th, 2025, as "National Nurses Week" in the State of Rhode Island. It officially recognizes the contributions of registered nurses and encourages all state residents to honor them for their selfless care and efforts in improving the healthcare system. The resolution also directs the Secretary of State to transmit copies to relevant nursing organizations.

Phases in modifications to federal adjusted gross income over a four (4) year period for social security income, from twenty percent (20%) up to eighty percent (80%), beginning on or after January 1, 2026.

Maddy summaryHouse Bill 5080 amends state sales and use tax laws. This bill exempts scalp hair prostheses or wigs from sales tax. The exemption applies specifically when these items are necessary due to hair loss resulting from a medical condition. This change aims to reduce the financial burden on individuals who require these items for medical reasons.

Maddy summaryHouse Resolution 6300 proclaims the first full week of May, 2025, as "Composting Awareness Week" in the State of Rhode Island. It urges the Governor and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management to observe the week with appropriate activities and programs, and encourages all Rhode Islanders to participate in composting.