Sen. Linda Ujifusa

Maddy summaryThis bill would allow restaurants and other food service establishments in Rhode Island to accept reusable containers brought by customers for filling or refilling with takeout food and drinks. The legislation defines consumer-provided containers as durable, cleanable receptacles that are structurally sound and free from contamination, and it requires the Department of Health to update food safety rules by July 2027 to permit this practice. The bill also mandates that the department create and publish guidance materials for businesses on inspecting containers, preventing cross-contamination, and following safe operational procedures. Importantly, the law does not require establishments to accept or fill customer-provided containers, leaving that decision to individual businesses.

Maddy summarySB 2467 prohibits health insurance companies from requiring prior approval (preauthorization) for in-network mental health and substance use disorder services, including both inpatient and outpatient care. This directly affects patients seeking these specific treatments through in-network providers, removing a common administrative barrier. The law takes effect on January 1, 2027, and aligns with existing requirements ensuring mental health coverage is treated equally to physical health coverage under insurance plans. It does not apply to out-of-network services or change other coverage rules like cost-sharing parity.

Provides that for treatment of mental health and substance use disorders, payors would rely upon criteria which reflect generally accepted standards of care when developing coverage.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution affirms Rhode Island's commitment to supporting women in the construction trades and expanding equitable access to careers in the industry. It recognizes current underrepresentation of women in construction and highlights the benefits of unionized apprenticeship programs, which offer family-sustaining wages and benefits without student loan debt. The resolution calls for continued support of union efforts to recruit, train, and retain women while directing the Secretary of State to share the document with relevant construction councils.

Amends the constitution to guarantee Rhode Island residents with equal opportunity to receive an education that is adequate, equitable and meaningful and provides judicial enforcement of this provision.

Permits students diagnosed with asthma, a condition that may lead to bronchospasm or anaphylaxis, or both, to carry and self-administer asthma medication or auto-injectable or intranasal epinephrine, or both.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution expresses condolences for seven U.S. military personnel who died during a conflict with Iran. It directly affects the families of the deceased service members and acknowledges their specific contributions and service records. The bill authorizes the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to each family as a formal gesture of respect. It does not create new laws or policies but serves as a ceremonial acknowledgment of the fallen soldiers' sacrifice.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution designates March 2026 as "Arts in the Schools - Youth Art Month" in Rhode Island to recognize the importance of arts education. The bill celebrates the contributions of arts educators, artists, and administrators while encouraging citizens to observe the month and support arts programs in schools. It directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to the Rhode Island State Council on the Arts. The resolution highlights how arts education benefits students by fostering skills like critical thinking, collaboration, and cultural competency.

Requires the public utilities commission to provide for a classification of service for retail electricity consumers that are large energy use facilities.

Expands the duties of the small business ombudsman, by also having the ombudsman serve as the Rhode Island commerce corporation's small business advocate.