Rep. Lauren Carson

Promotes fiscal integrity, transparency, and accountability in the state’s healthcare system by mandating that certain reporting covered health entities submit quarterly financial reports to the secretary.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution that honors the Girl Scouts of Southeastern New England for their work in empowering girls through leadership and service. It recognizes the organization's efforts, including transforming Camp Rocky Farm into a maritime facility and supporting STEM and environmental programs for thousands of youth in Rhode Island. The resolution formally expresses gratitude to the group and directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to the organization's CEO.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates May 28, 2026, as Pharmacy Advocacy Day in Rhode Island to honor the contributions of pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and student pharmacists to public health. The resolution encourages citizens, healthcare professionals, and organizations to participate in events that promote pharmacy advocacy and raise awareness about the vital role pharmacists play in medication management and patient care. Additionally, the bill directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to the Rhode Island Pharmacists Association and the Rhode Island Board of Pharmacy.

Creates multiple chapters to provide and establish a comprehensive program for extended producer responsibility for packaging and paper, and for recycling of beverage containers.

Maddy summaryHB 7910 creates a program requiring companies that produce packaging and paper products (like food containers, boxes, and paper goods) to manage their recycling. It directly affects manufacturers and brands by shifting the financial and operational responsibility for recycling these materials from taxpayers and local governments to the producers themselves. Key provisions mandate that producers fund, organize, and oversee the recycling system for their packaging and paper waste, rather than relying on public recycling programs. This policy change aims to increase recycling rates and reduce landfill waste by making producers accountable for the end-of-life management of their products.

Prohibits the use of black plastic takeout containers for use to take prepared foods and drinks from restaurants, stores, and other retail sales establishments.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Rhode Island's Healthcare Services Funding Plan Act to require health insurers to contribute an additional $30 million annually starting in 2026 to support the MomsPRN and PediPRN teleconsultation lines. These programs provide mental health consultation and referral services to pediatric, perinatal, and primary care providers through telephone hotlines. The funding is collected from insurers based on their number of enrollees and deposited into a restricted account managed by the Department of Health. The bill also mandates that the Department of Health submit annual reports on program costs and provides insurers with access to detailed cost information upon request.

Maddy summaryThis bill appropriates $2.7 million annually starting in fiscal year 2026-2027 to the state department of health for maternal health initiatives. The funds are allocated to four specific programs: $750,000 for maternal health data tracking, $1.2 million for workplace health programs, $600,000 for community health access grants, and $150,000 for advisory council operations. These funds directly support state-level maternal health efforts, including data collection, workplace wellness, community access, and community engagement. The appropriation requires no new policy changes but provides dedicated funding for existing maternal health programs.

Maddy summaryHB 7241 establishes a state tax credit for Rhode Island residents who provide unpaid care to qualifying family members. It allows eligible caregivers (earning under $50,000 individually or $100,000 jointly) to claim a 50% credit on out-of-pocket expenses for caregiving, capped at $1,000 annually. Eligible expenses include home modifications, medical equipment, hiring aides, or respite care, but exclude insurance-covered costs or general home maintenance. The credit applies to expenses incurred after 2026 for family members aged 65+ or with disability benefits who live with the caregiver and need help with at least two basic self-care tasks (like bathing or dressing).

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution that celebrates the 160th anniversary of Child & Family, a Rhode Island organization founded in 1866 to support children and families. It formally recognizes the group's long history of providing services such as early childhood education, foster care, and housing assistance, while also honoring its staff and volunteers. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the document to the organization's leadership as a mark of appreciation.