Prohibits dental insurers from refusing to honor directions to pay from insured, modifying benefits to be paid. Requires providers to accept payment by virtual credit card as unfair claims practices.
Maddy summarySB 877 amends the Unfair Claims Settlement Practices Act to define additional actions as unfair practices by insurance companies. It requires insurers to honor a consumer's choice for direct payment of motor vehicle replacement rental benefits to a rental car company and repair benefits to an auto body shop. The bill also mandates that insurers compensate auto body shops based on industry-recognized software and manufacturer-recommended procedures, and requires physical appraisals by licensed, unaffiliated appraisers for vehicle damage exceeding $2,500. These changes directly affect insurance companies, policyholders, auto body shops, and rental car companies involved in vehicle damage claims.
Increases the income range up to fifty thousand dollars ($50,000) and tax credit up to eight hundred fifty dollars ($850), for elderly and disabled persons who own or rent their homes.
Maddy summarySB 693 proposes to expand eligibility for Medicare Savings Programs, which help low-income seniors and people with disabilities pay for Medicare costs. The bill increases the income limit for the Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) program to 125% of the federal poverty line, enabling more individuals to receive assistance with Medicare Part A and B premiums, deductibles, and co-payments. It also sets an income limit for the Qualified Individual (QI) program between 125% and 168% of the federal poverty line, assisting these individuals with Medicare Part B premiums. Enrollment in these programs automatically provides additional help with prescription drug costs. The Secretary of the Executive Office of Health and Human Services is tasked with implementing these changes.
Authorizes and funds the painting of a portrait of the president of the senate and former presidents of the senate who may be living to be hung in the state house.
Maddy summarySenate Bill 468 establishes a maximum price for certain prescription drugs in Rhode Island. It prohibits state agencies, health insurance plans, and participating ERISA plans (if they opt-in) from purchasing "referenced drugs" for a cost higher than a federally determined maximum fair price. Any savings generated from these price limitations must be used to reduce costs for consumers or plan members, and entities must report these savings annually to the insurance commissioner.
Maddy summarySenate Resolution 1076 recognizes May 11th through May 17th, 2025, as "National Hospital Week" in the State of Rhode Island. This resolution acknowledges and thanks Rhode Island's healthcare professionals for their dedication to providing quality health services to the community.
Maddy summarySenate Resolution 1078 is a procedural bill that commemorates Lao New Year, known as "Pi Mai Lao," by the State of Rhode Island Senate. It extends best wishes to the Lao people for a healthy, prosperous, and joyful new year, recognizing their cultural contributions and heritage.
Maddy summarySenate Resolution 1077 is a commemorative resolution that congratulates the Town of Little Compton, Rhode Island, on the joyous occasion of its 350th anniversary during 2025. The resolution acknowledges the town's history, community, and milestones.
Provides that the cost of maintaining and repairing or restoring an easement or right-of-way shall be shared by each owner of a benefited property and their costs shall be determined by and commensurate with the municipal appraisal of each property.
