Rep. Jay Edwards

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates February 3, 2026, as "National Women Physicians Day" within Rhode Island. It commemorates the legacy of pioneering female physicians, including Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell (first woman to earn a U.S. medical degree) and Dr. Velma Scantlebury-White (first Black woman transplant surgeon), while highlighting women's contributions to medicine. The resolution directs Rhode Island's Secretary of State to send a certified copy to the president of the Rhode Island Medical Women’s Association (RIMWA). It is purely ceremonial, with no policy changes or funding impacts.

Prohibits healthcare insurers from requiring or conducting a review for prescription medicine used to treat alcohol or opioid use disorder containing Methadone, Burenorphine, or Naltrexone, or approved to mitigate opioid withdrawal symptoms.

Maddy summaryHB 7409 prohibits retail establishments from adding extra fees to customers who pay with credit cards for in-state transactions. It directly affects businesses selling goods or services within the state and their customers. The bill amends deceptive trade practices law to make imposing such credit card surcharges a violation, treating it as deceptive behavior. This policy change eliminates a common practice where businesses charged more for credit card use compared to cash or debit. The law would take effect immediately upon passage.

Effective January 1, 2028, Increases the hourly minimum wage in accordance with the Consumer Price Index for the Northeast Region for the previous four (4) fiscal years.

Amends the definition of infectious diseases to include the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and would include emergency medical technicians eligible for benefits.

Caps amount payable for 30 day supply of equipment/supplies for insulin administration/glucose monitoring at $25 or equipment designed to last more than 30 days with no deductible commencing January 1, 2027.

Maddy summaryHB 7235 clarifies that Rhode Island's General Assembly retains exclusive authority to approve or deny nuclear plant construction projects, explicitly reserving this power despite other state or local laws. The bill amends Section 42-64-14.1 of the General Laws to maintain legislative oversight for nuclear plant projects, ensuring they require direct General Assembly approval rather than relying on other regulatory processes. This change directly affects developers seeking to build nuclear facilities in Rhode Island, as they must now obtain specific legislative approval before construction. The bill does not eliminate the approval requirement but formally reinforces the General Assembly’s jurisdiction over such projects. The measure is currently pending further study after committee consideration.

Allows school committees to add item(s) not appearing in the published notice to their agendas for the purposes of discussion only and not for the purpose of voting upon the item(s).

Maddy summaryHR 7262 is a ceremonial House resolution honoring Kathleen B. Jackson, the Rhode Island General Assembly's Human Resources Administrator, upon her retirement after 15 years of service (2011-2025). The resolution formally recognizes her "talents, diligence, and patience" in managing the Assembly’s workforce and expresses gratitude for her contributions to the State House staff. It includes personal details about her family and hobbies but contains no policy provisions or legislative changes. As a procedural resolution, it does not affect laws, budgets, or any group of people beyond expressing the House’s appreciation. The resolution was passed by the House on January 22, 2026, and directs the Secretary of State to deliver a certified copy to Ms. Jackson.

Maddy summaryThis resolution honors Jackie Hersey for her 24 years of service as an administrative assistant in the Rhode Island House of Representatives, recognizing her work compiling legislative data, preparing reports, and organizing bills. The House passed this ceremonial resolution on January 22, 2026, to thank her upon her retirement. It does not create new policy or affect any laws, as it is a formal expression of appreciation for her contributions.