Maddy summaryHB 7113 designates rhythm and blues as the official state music of the state. The bill defines this genre broadly to include elements of pop, soul, funk, hip-hop, and electronic music. Once passed, this designation becomes part of the state's official emblems and symbols.
Maddy summaryThis bill repeals Rhode Island's participation in the Interstate Compact on Industrialized/Modular Buildings, effectively ending the state's agreement with other jurisdictions to share building codes for factory-made structures. By removing this compact, the legislation eliminates the requirement for Rhode Island to recognize permits and inspections from other member states for modular homes and commercial buildings. The change means that industrialized/modular buildings in Rhode Island will no longer be subject to the uniform administrative procedures and model rules previously established under the compact. Consequently, the state retains full authority to regulate these buildings independently without the reciprocity framework that the repealed agreement provided.
Maddy summaryThis bill designates May 28, 2024, as "Arts Advocacy Day" throughout Rhode Island to highlight the importance of the arts sector. It acknowledges that the arts contribute significantly to the state's economy, education, and community life, noting that the industry has faced challenges following the pandemic. The resolution urges residents to support local arts programs and directs the Secretary of State to send copies of the proclamation to relevant arts organizations.
Requires public school districts to adopt a policy for responding to the death of a student or staff member. Also amends the title of chapter 16-21.7 to "The Nathan Bruno, Jason Flatt, and Alicia Biros Bereavement Act."
Imposes a tax of five percent (5%) upon the rental of a house or condominium. The funds from the tax to be used exclusively for infrastructure improvements, riverine and coastal resiliency and housing.
Allocates five percent (5%) of revenues from the local meals and beverage tax to the Rhode Island Semiquincentennial (R.I. 250) Commission for the execution of its duties from July 1, 2024 to December 31, 2026.
Provides that a defendant's third and subsequent violation of domestic violence offenses, including both prior felony and misdemeanor convictions, be punishable as a felony.
This resolution would amend and expand the purpose of said legislative commission, and extend the reporting and expirations dates from March 15, 2024, to September 30, 2025, and said commission would expire on December 10, 2025.
Maddy summaryThis bill establishes the Medical Primary Care Scholarship Program in Rhode Island to address a shortage of healthcare providers by offering financial aid to students pursuing careers in primary care. Administered by the Commissioner of Postsecondary Education, the program provides up to $70,000 annually for medical students and $47,000 annually for nurse practitioner or physician assistant students, with a limit of five new awards per category each year. To receive these funds, applicants must maintain excellent academic standing and agree to work full-time in primary care within the state for two years after completing their education and licensing. The legislation also allows the commissioner to create a nonprofit organization to manage the program's administrative services and set specific selection criteria to ensure diversity and commitment to the state.
Requires every individual or group health insurance contract effective on or after January 1, 2025, to provide coverage to the insured and the insured's spouse and dependents for all FDA-approved contraceptive drugs, devices and other products.
