Sen. Linda Ujifusa

Maddy summarySB 2464 requires Rhode Island's health insurance commissioner to produce annual reports on insurer practices, including fee schedules, provider credentialing processes, and data disclosure methods for healthcare facilities. The bill mandates that a professional-provider-health-plan work group (part of an advisory council) compile specific data to help consumers compare quality and costs of care. These reports, due by January 1, 2027, will cover topics like insurance dispute resolution, real-time enrollment verification, and the impact of "silent PPOs" on providers. The legislation directly affects health insurers, medical providers, and consumers by increasing transparency in health insurance operations and pricing.

Maddy summarySB 2567 establishes a universal single-payer healthcare system called "RICare" for all Rhode Island residents, replacing the current multi-insurer model with a publicly administered system funded through state taxes. It aims to guarantee universal access to primary and preventive care while reducing administrative costs and medical debt by consolidating payments into one system. Key provisions include creating a RICare Board, defining healthcare terms, and requiring coordination with state agencies to implement the system after securing federal approval. The bill is currently in early stages (introduced February 2026, referred to Senate Health Committee) and does not specify funding details or timelines for full implementation.

Provides that the EOHHS, through Emergency Medicaid, cover dialysis for the treatment of end stage renal disease ("ESRD") and kidney transplants for RI residents who do not qualify for full Medicaid under federal law due to their immigration status.

Maddy summaryThis bill repeals a law that previously blocked Rhode Island from monitoring or regulating broadband services, removing a barrier to state oversight. It requires the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation to develop a plan for a broadband oversight office to monitor service quality, map coverage gaps, and coordinate federal broadband funding. The bill is necessary to meet federal requirements for managing programs like the BEAD grant, which demand ongoing state-level tracking of broadband performance and coverage. This oversight structure will enable the state to better manage public broadband investments and address unserved areas.

Maddy summaryThis bill, known as the Embryo Safety and Storage Act of 2025, establishes new regulations for facilities that store human embryos. It requires the state Department of Health to oversee and license these storage facilities to ensure they meet safety standards. The law directly impacts clinics and organizations that provide embryo storage services, as they will need to comply with the new licensing requirements. By creating a formal regulatory framework, the bill aims to standardize how embryos are handled and stored within the state.

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.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates April 2026 as "Financial Literacy Month" in Rhode Island. It encourages residents to participate in financial education programs and directs the Secretary of State to share the resolution with the RI JumpStart Coalition. The bill does not create new laws or funding but serves as a symbolic declaration to highlight the importance of personal finance skills.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates March 31, 2026, as "Alzheimer's Association of Rhode Island Advocacy and Awareness Day" to honor the organization's efforts in supporting individuals affected by Alzheimer's disease. The resolution acknowledges the growing impact of the disease on Rhode Island's senior population and highlights the critical services provided by the Alzheimer's Association, such as caregiver support and education. By commemorating this date, the Senate aims to raise public awareness and encourage community support for those navigating the challenges of the disease. The Secretary of State is authorized to send a certified copy of the resolution to the Alzheimer's Association of Rhode Island.

Restricts increases in monthly common expenses and limit special assessments to cover unforeseen costs not included in the condo association’s approved annual budget for common expenses where the minority of the units are deed-restricted units.

Permits but not directs a municipality to establish, by ordinance, certain requirements regarding accessory dwelling units regarding ownership for 5 years, non-family ADUs to be rented at affordable rates and limit size to 1,000 sq. ft.