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 2246 establishes a Rhode Island tax credit to help unpaid family caregivers offset out-of-pocket costs for caring for eligible relatives. It provides a 50% credit (up to $1,000 annually) for qualifying expenses like home modifications, medical equipment, hired aides, respite care, or adult day care, directly benefiting caregivers with household incomes under $50,000 ($100,000 for couples). To qualify, the caregiver must provide unpaid support for a relative aged 65+ or with Social Security Disability, who needs assistance with at least two daily living tasks (e.g., bathing, feeding) and resides with them in Rhode Island for six+ months. The credit applies to taxable years starting after December 31, 2026, and excludes costs covered by insurance or general home maintenance.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates May 4, 2026, as Rhode Island Independence Day to mark the 250th anniversary of the state's historic Act of Renunciation. The bill recognizes the General Assembly's 1776 decision to reject allegiance to the British Crown as a unique act of defiance that preceded the national Declaration of Independence. By passing this measure, the Senate directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to the Governor and the state's congressional delegation. The text serves as a commemorative acknowledgment of Rhode Island's role in the American Revolution rather than establishing new laws or changing government procedures.
Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution formally recognizes the 175th anniversary of the YMCA in the United States and honors the contributions of the Rhode Island Alliance of YMCAs. It directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to YMCA leadership as a gesture of appreciation for their community work.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution condemns all forms of political violence and reaffirms the principles of civility and democratic governance in Rhode Island. It specifically denounces a recent attempted attack on President Donald J. Trump and calls on citizens and leaders to resolve disagreements through peaceful dialogue and the ballot box rather than intimidation. The bill directs the Secretary of State to send copies of this statement to the President and state congressional representatives, serving as a formal expression of the Senate's stance rather than a change in law.
Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution designates April 2026 as "Out-of-School Time Month" in Rhode Island to honor the value of afterschool and summer programs for youth. The bill aims to raise awareness about how these programs support children's academic, social, and emotional development while acknowledging the dedicated professionals who run them. It directs the Secretary of State to send copies of the resolution to the Rhode Island Afterschool Network and the National Afterschool Association to celebrate their work.
Requires landlords of residential properties built before 1978 to register lead hazard mitigation information with the department of health and the information would remain private and only accessible by specific entities.
Substitutes "housing resources commission" with "department of health" for lead hazard mitigation purposes. It also makes it easier for a property owner to release funds put into an escrow account, if needed to make required repairs or improvements.
Grants an affirmative defense for certain privileged communications, including communications made by an individual, without malice, regarding an incident of sexual assault, harassment, or discrimination.
Maddy summarySB 2596 requires family courts to grant post-separation visitation rights for siblings separated through adoption, foster care, or guardianship. It directly affects children in these situations and their separated siblings, ensuring they can maintain contact unless it harms a child's well-being. The bill mandates courts to approve visitation if it serves the child's best interests, there's a strong emotional bond, and parents/guardians negotiate in good faith. It also requires children aged 12+ to be heard in court and prohibits monetary damages in related disputes. The law takes effect upon passage.
