Sen. Linda Ujifusa

Sets controls on Medicaid prescription drug costs by imposing transparency and accountability requirements on managed care organizations (MCOs) and their pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs).

Prohibits a person to sell, offer for sale, display for sale or otherwise distribute a farmed animal fur product within the state and provides graduated civil penalties for violations.

Maddy summarySB 633 requires schools in Rhode Island to report the names and reasons for terminating noncredentialled staff (like cafeteria workers or aides without teaching licenses) for valid cause to the state education department within 60 days. The department will maintain a confidential list of these terminations, updated monthly, which only school hiring authorities (not the public) can access. This applies to terminations for cause - not nonrenewals or budget cuts - and excludes licensed staff like teachers, coaches, and administrators. The list is not a public record, and the bill takes effect upon passage.

Includes the definition of "primary care services" and requires that all biennial reports shall include a review and recommendation of rates for primary care services on and after September 1, 2025.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution urges Rhode Island's federal delegation (Senators Reed and Whitehouse, and Representatives Magaziner and Amo) to demand reversal of policies harming health programs. It specifically calls for restoring U.S. foreign aid (including PEPFAR for HIV care), ending the Mexico City Policy, unfreezing Medicaid funding, and resuming CDC's Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. The resolution has no legal force but aims to influence federal policy by advocating for reinstating global health cooperation and domestic health protections. It directly targets the federal delegation's role in addressing these specific policy changes.

Maddy summarySB 119 authorizes the state Department of Health to create rules that make buprenorphine more accessible for treating opioid use disorder (OUD). The bill directly affects patients with OUD and healthcare providers who prescribe this medication by requiring the department to adopt regulations that remove barriers to buprenorphine use. Key provisions include amending state law to mandate the department develop rules supporting "more liberal utilization" of buprenorphine in treatment. The bill does not change current prescribing requirements but gives the department authority to update regulations to expand access. It takes effect upon passage.

Maddy summaryThis ceremonial resolution honors Emily Santerre for being named Miss Ireland in West Warwick’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade. It recognizes her academic achievements, leadership roles (including as Treasurer for National Honor Society), athletic accomplishments (multi-sport captain, school record in pole vault), and dedication to Irish-American heritage. The resolution formally congratulates her and directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to her and her family. It has no legal effect or policy changes - only symbolic recognition.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a ceremonial resolution (SR 835) that formally commemorates the Feast of St. Joseph, celebrated annually on March 19th. It recognizes Saint Joseph's significance to Christians globally and specifically honors Italian-American cultural heritage in Rhode Island, referencing historical ties to Italian immigrants. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to the Italian American Historical Society of Rhode Island. As a symbolic gesture, it does not create new laws or affect any policies, people, or funding.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 837) symbolically declares March 2025 as "Arts in the Schools Month" in Rhode Island. It does not create new laws or affect specific groups, but urges all citizens to recognize and support arts educators, artists, and administrators who provide arts education in schools. The resolution cites the value of arts learning for student skills like critical thinking and cultural competency, aligning with national arts education organizations. It directs the Secretary of State to certify the resolution to the Rhode Island State Council on the Arts.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates March 17, 2025, as "Profound Autism Day in Rhode Island" to recognize individuals with profound autism and their families. It specifically highlights people aged 8+ with significant cognitive challenges (IQ <50), minimal language, and high care needs like 24-hour supervision. The resolution aims to raise awareness about disparities in diagnosis and support access, urging inclusion in services and research. As a symbolic gesture, it does not create new laws or funding but formally acknowledges the community's needs.