Creates the Rhode Island Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act, prohibiting the performance or induction of an abortion of an unborn child capable of feeling pain, unless necessary to prevent serious health risk to the unborn child's mother.
Allows for the establishment of innovation schools for the purpose of improving school performance and student achievement through increased autonomy and flexibility.
Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial Senate resolution expressing condolences for Melvin L. Zurier, a Rhode Island resident and retired Air Force Reserve Colonel who served as a lawyer, public servant, and community leader. It formally honors his life, career, and family without creating any new laws or policies. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies to his family, including his son Senator Samuel D. Zurier. As a commemorative resolution, it has no legislative effect beyond expressing official sympathy.
Maddy summaryThis is a memorial resolution (SR 6) expressing the Rhode Island Senate's condolences on the passing of former Senator James S. D'Ambra. It formally honors his 16-year service in the state Senate, his education career, and his community contributions, and directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies to his widow, Laureen D'Ambra, and his children. The resolution has no policy provisions or impact on laws or regulations - it is purely a symbolic gesture of respect for the deceased legislator and his family.
Maddy summaryThis bill grants a property tax exemption to the tangible personal property of Northwest Community Health Care, also known as WellOne Primary Medical and Dental Care. The legislation amends the state's property tax laws to specifically exclude this healthcare provider's assets from taxation, effective January 1, 2024. By adding this entity to the list of exempt organizations, the bill ensures that the business will not be required to pay property taxes on its equipment and other movable assets. The measure was passed by both the Senate and the House and became law without the Governor's signature.
Maddy summaryThis bill permits hunters to use crossbows to harvest wild turkeys, provided they follow rules set by the Department of Environmental Management. While the law generally prohibits taking wild birds with crossbows or other specific weapons, it creates a specific exception for wild turkeys. The change applies only to wild turkeys and does not affect the rules for hunting other types of birds.
Maddy summaryThis bill requires licensed healthcare facilities to publicly disclose a comprehensive list of standard charges for all items and services they provide. Hospitals must post this information on their websites in a free, searchable digital format that includes specific pricing details such as gross charges, discounted cash prices, and negotiated rates for various insurance plans. The law also mandates a separate, consumer-friendly list for shoppable services, ensuring patients can easily access cost data without needing to create accounts or provide personal information. By standardizing how price information is presented and formatted, the legislation aims to increase transparency and allow patients to compare costs across different facilities.
Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new licensing system for youth camps in Rhode Island that receive state child care assistance payments. To operate legally, these camps must meet specific standards regarding facility safety, staff qualifications, and background checks for all employees over eighteen. The law requires regular inspections by the Department of Human Services and mandates that camps keep detailed records for each camper and their guardians. Effective January 1, 2025, the legislation ensures that only camps adhering to these health and safety rules can accept state funding.
Maddy summaryThis bill establishes the Rhode Island Secure Choice Retirement Savings Program, a voluntary initiative designed to help private sector workers save for retirement. Administered by the state treasurer, the program allows eligible private employers to automatically deduct small amounts from employees' paychecks into individual retirement accounts. The legislation defines who can participate, sets rules for how the money is invested, and requires the program to offer educational resources to help employees make informed decisions about their savings.
Maddy summaryThis bill delays the enforcement of laws requiring specific living conditions for egg-laying hens until January 1, 2028. It directly affects commercial egg producers by temporarily exempting them from current confinement standards that would otherwise take effect. The legislation allows these farms to continue using existing housing methods for hens during the extension period without legal penalty. Once the deadline passes, the original regulations will apply to covered animals as previously scheduled.
