Sen. David Tikoian

Prohibit rate charges in excess of rates applied if tenant of residential complexes with electrical master-meters receives electricity directly from a public utility.

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.

Establishes VICTIM Fund grant program to support nonprofit organizations providing victim services in Rhode Island with the state allocating $30,000,000 per year to fund the program and staffing within the department of public safety.

Exempts from the sales tax eligible school supplies, costing less than $30.00, purchased within one week prior to the commencement of the academic year.

Maddy summarySB 943 requires landlords of "large multi-family dwellings" (buildings with more than 12 units) to obtain insurance. This insurance must cover temporary housing and storage costs for tenants displaced for at least 30 days due to events like fire, flood, or natural disaster that render the building uninhabitable. The bill outlines tenant rights, including prompt notification and suitable temporary housing, and establishes penalties for non-compliant landlords, with enforcement by the Department of Business Regulation.

Maddy summarySB 271 prohibits health benefit plans from requiring or conducting prospective or concurrent utilization reviews for certain prescription medications used to treat alcohol or opioid use disorder. This applies to medicines containing Methadone, Buprenorphine, or Naltrexone, or those FDA-approved for opioid withdrawal symptoms. The bill directly affects individuals seeking these treatments and the health insurers providing their plans. Additionally, it requires Medicaid managed care organizations to use specific medical necessity criteria for their utilization reviews, as selected by the executive office of health and human services. This act takes effect upon passage.

Prohibits any city or town from requiring an applicant for license to carry concealed firearm to provide a reason for their request other than those outlined in § 11-47-1.

Increases sentences for carrying a stolen firearm when committing a crime of violence and for possessing a stolen firearm. Requires that a person convicted of these offenses serve a period of time in which they would not be eligible for parole/ probation.

Creates the position of dementia services coordinator within the department of health to coordinate the departments approach to Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 1069 reaffirms the friendship between the State of Rhode Island and Taiwan. It encourages the Rhode Island State Government to strengthen bilateral trade relations, including considering the possible opening of a trade office in Taiwan. The resolution also expresses support for Taiwan's participation in international organizations and agreements, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).