Makes technical amendments to the RI life science hub regarding the terms of the directors, advisory committees, powers, disposition of hub assets upon termination, and tax status as a governmental unit which is a separate legal entity from the state.
Maddy summarySB 347 creates a limited license for foreign-trained physicians in Rhode Island who meet specific criteria. It allows doctors who graduated from medical schools outside the U.S. and completed accredited residency training abroad to practice under supervision, provided they hold ECFMG certification, have at least three years of unrestricted practice in another country, and complete a board-approved training program. This license requires ongoing evaluation through a participating healthcare facility and excludes physicians who completed U.S. or Canadian residency training. The bill directly affects internationally-trained doctors seeking to practice in Rhode Island while ensuring patient safety through structured oversight.
Maddy summarySB 601 increases penalties for public utilities and carriers that violate duties outlined in state law. It raises fines for violations from $200-$1,000 to $200-$5,000 per offense, with each day of a continuing violation treated as a separate violation. The bill also imposes misdemeanor penalties of $100-$1,000 on utility officers or agents who violate rules or fail to comply with regulatory orders. This directly affects public utilities (like gas, water, or electric providers) and their employees responsible for adhering to regulatory requirements.
Creates a process for licensure/oversight by DBR over the practices/procedures of virtual currency kiosk operators to prevent fraud related to the use of virtual currency kiosks, by establishing daily transaction limits and regulation of fees.
Amends the definitions of a “pupil transportation vehicle” to a vehicle contrasted to seat not more than ten (10) passengers plus the operator, rather than the existing limit of eight (8) passengers.
Maddy summarySB 771 requires all public schools to create and implement a policy restricting student access to personal electronic devices (like smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches) during the school day and school activities to reduce distractions and protect learning environments. The policy must include parental notification and allow exceptions for students needing assistive technology under IEPs/504 plans, medical monitoring (e.g., glucose checks), or language support for emergent multilingual learners. Schools cannot search devices retained during school hours, and the education department must provide annual guidance to help schools develop these policies. The law takes effect on August 1, 2026.
Maddy summarySB 198 extends the authorization for licensed physical therapists to order diagnostic imaging (such as X-rays) as part of their practice beyond December 31, 2025. This bill directly affects physical therapists and their patients by allowing continued access to imaging tests without requiring a separate physician order. Key provisions include requiring therapists to report imaging results to a patient’s primary care physician within seven days (unless no primary care provider exists) and mandating annual utilization reports from health insurance plans to the legislature. The law maintains existing reporting requirements while removing the previous expiration date for this practice.
Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial Senate resolution (SR 1165) celebrating the 30th anniversary of Father Bernard A. Healey's priestly ordination on June 24, 2025. It formally recognizes his decades of service to Rhode Island, including his work with the poor, his roles as a chaplain and Catholic Conference director, and his community leadership. The resolution has no policy impact - it simply directs the Secretary of State to send Father Healey a certified copy of the resolution. It directly affects only Father Healey as a symbolic gesture of appreciation.
Maddy summarySB 654 establishes a $250,000 pilot program for virtual reality (VR) learning platforms to improve math instruction for students in grades 6 through 12. The bill requires the Department of Education to select a VR program proven to boost algebra 1 scores through third-party evaluation, with funding covering teacher training and equipment in districts needing enhanced math engagement. The program must use 3D models to teach standards-aligned math concepts through real-world problem-solving scenarios. A third-party report on student achievement impact is required before the program begins in the 2026-2027 school year.
Establishes a restricted receipt account, known as the “988 Call Center Fund,” to be held and administered by the state to support the 988 call center budget.
