Rep. Jay Edwards

Maddy summaryHB 5636 requires virtual currency kiosk operators in the state to provide customers with a choice of paper or electronic receipts for every transaction, starting January 1, 2026. The receipts must include specific details like the customer's wallet address, account owner's full name, unique transaction ID, and the company's fraud refund policy statement. Operators must also send an electronic copy of each transaction to the customer's email or record on file. This law directly affects businesses operating virtual currency kiosks within the state, mandating clear transaction documentation to enhance transparency and consumer protection.

Requires the secretary of the executive office of health and human services to monitor and mandate changes to the price-setting practices of pharmacy benefit managers to prohibit the spread pricing payment model.

Increases the maximum state and municipal small purchase limits from $10,000 to $25,000 for construction projects and from $5,000 to $10,000 for all other state and municipal purchases.

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, 2026.

Maddy summaryHB 5685 requires casinos to pay overtime to workers who work on Sundays or designated holidays, such as New Year's Day, Independence Day, and Christmas. This bill directly affects casino employees in Rhode Island by removing their previous exemption from overtime pay requirements for holiday and Sunday work. The key change amends the definition of "employee" in labor law to exclude casino workers from the list of exempted occupations. The policy would take effect immediately upon passage, ensuring these workers receive overtime compensation for scheduled holiday and Sunday shifts.

Maddy summaryHB 5507 gradually increases the minimum cash wage for employees in tipped occupations (like restaurants and hotels) who rely on gratuities. Starting from $3.89 per hour in 2017, it raises this rate by $0.50 annually until 2026, then increases by $2.00 each year through 2030 to reach $14.95 per hour. By January 1, 2031, these workers will receive the same minimum wage as non-tipped employees, eliminating the tip credit. The bill directly affects tipped workers in qualifying industries and requires employers to pay at least the stated cash wage without deducting gratuities below the specified thresholds.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial House Resolution (HR 6025) commemorating the 50th anniversary of the State Government Affairs Council (SGAC). It formally recognizes SGAC's 50 years of work fostering relationships between government, businesses, and communities, promoting diversity, and mentoring government affairs professionals. The resolution has no policy provisions or direct impact on legislation or constituents - it solely offers formal commendation and encouragement for SGAC's nonpartisan contributions to state governance. The House passed it on March 4, 2025, as a symbolic gesture.

Makes any offense under this statute that could result in the death of an animal punishable by up to 3 years in prison, a fine of at least $1,000, or both, for each offense.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (not a policy bill) expressing the Rhode Island House of Representatives' condolences upon the death of Judge Bruce Selya, a former U.S. Court of Appeals judge for the First Circuit. It formally honors his 40+ year judicial career, his service to Rhode Island, and his legacy as a respected jurist and community leader. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies to Judge Selya's family. As a symbolic gesture, it has no legislative effect or policy changes.

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.