Sen. Linda Ujifusa

Maddy summaryThis is a commemorative resolution (not a law) designating February 8, 2025, as "Carrigan Nelson Day" in Rhode Island. It honors Carrigan Nelson, a young woman who has courageously battled pediatric osteosarcoma since 2019 while advocating for pediatric cancer funding and awareness. The resolution symbolically recognizes her advocacy and inspires "Cancer Warriors," with no direct policy changes or obligations. The Senate passed it on February 4, 2025, directing the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to Carrigan Nelson.

Amends State funding calculations for special education, revising extraordinary cost calculations for FY 2027-2028, and providing additional funds for excess costs when special education students move into a district after the budget is approved.

Maddy summarySR 80 is a ceremonial Senate resolution recognizing the Lunar New Year celebration for "The Year of the Wood Snake" on January 29, 2025. It formally acknowledges this cultural observance and expresses appreciation to Rhode Island's Asian community for contributions to the state's cultural diversity. The resolution has no binding effect or policy changes; it solely serves as a symbolic gesture of recognition. The Secretary of State is directed to send a certified copy to the Rhode Island Association of Chinese Americans.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires hospitals to screen uninsured patients for eligibility for public health insurance programs and hospital financial assistance as soon as possible after they agree to the screening. The law mandates that hospitals document patient responses, provide referrals to free enrollment help if a patient qualifies for public coverage, and stop billing the patient for covered services once insurance is approved. Additionally, hospitals must post clear notices about financial aid availability and make application materials accessible in patient areas. The bill also authorizes a pilot program allowing hospitals to provide acute care services to patients in their private homes under specific conditions.

Permits those other residents of a residential dwelling unit to extend the term of the rental agreement for a period not to exceed three (3) months after the death of the lessee.

Enacts the Comprehensive PFAS Ban Act of 2024, prohibiting the intentional addition of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances of PFAS in products offered for sale or manufactured in the state as of January 1, 2027.

Creates a 13-member joint commission to study the transportation needs of students and recommend what changes are necessary, and who would report back to the General Assembly by April 16, 2025, and expire on May 27, 2025.

Relocates the chapter relating to licensing of massage therapists from the health and safety title to the businesses and professions title with multiple amendments.

Changes the term "assumed name" to "trade name" and centralizes the filing, administration and regulation process of trade names to the secretary of state and also requires an annual renewal of the trade name.

Mandates, as of 1/1/26, all recovery housing facilities register with department of behavioral healthcare, developmental disabilities and hospitals adhere to the National Alliance for Recovery Residences process.