Extends the incentive pay plan to all full-time court clerks, including the traffic tribunal, who meet the eligibility requirements. It would also repeal § 8-4.1-6 regarding additional credit for a master's degree.
Provides that architects and other authorized disaster response workers be considered, in the course of performing their duties, state workers and be entitled to all rights in like manner as state employees.
Prohibits a landlord from inquiring about the immigration status of a tenant subject to any federal laws or regulations, but may request financial information or proof of identity.
Provides that any disaster response worker shall, in the course of their duties, be considered a state employee and be entitled to all rights in like manner as state employees.
Maddy summarySB 168, the Rhode Island Prior Authorization Reform Act of 2025, prevents insurance companies from requiring prior approval (where patients or doctors must get insurance permission before a service) for any medical service ordered by an in-network primary care provider. This means patients can receive care recommended by their primary care doctor without waiting for insurance review, directly affecting patients, primary care providers, and insurers. The key provision prohibits insurers from imposing prior authorization for these services, streamlining access to care. The bill applies to all health insurance plans operating in Rhode Island, removing a common administrative barrier for routine primary care referrals.
Amends sections of law relative to historic tax credits including increasing the maximum project credit and implementing requirements relative to following prevailing wage requirements..
Maddy summarySB 610 strengthens consumer protections for Medicare Supplement (Medigap) insurance policies in the state. It prohibits insurers from excluding benefits for preexisting conditions after a 6-month waiting period and bans policies that duplicate Medicare coverage. The bill guarantees beneficiaries (including those under 65 with disabilities) access to Plan A policies without medical underwriting or health-based eligibility checks during specific enrollment periods. It also requires the insurance commissioner to establish standards for policy terms, premium rates, and claims practices to ensure fairness and transparency.
Requires the school board or committees of cities and towns to establish a safety and behavioral health committee and also lays out the representation requirements committee responsibilities to ensure a stable learning environment for all students.
Maddy summarySB 238, the "Freedom to Read Act," prohibits public libraries and school libraries from removing or restricting materials based on the creator's identity (race, gender, sexuality, etc.) or viewpoint. It defines censorship narrowly, excluding only obscene material (per legal standards) or content deemed developmentally inappropriate by recognized authorities like the ALA. The law requires libraries to adopt policies ensuring challenged materials remain available during review, establish formal reconsideration processes with 30-day timelines, and mandate written justifications for removals. These rules apply directly to public library boards, school committees, and librarians managing collections across the state.
Protects the rights of employees in the workplace relating to free speech, assembly and religion, as well as attendance at employer-sponsored meetings regarding political or religious matters.
