Sen. Mark McKenney

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 1033 proclaims May 10, 2025, as "Lupus Day" in the State of Rhode Island to raise awareness about the autoimmune disease. The resolution also encourages charitable donations to organizations like the Lupus Foundation of America that are involved in lupus research and patient services.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 997 establishes the "Beverage Container Recycling Act," creating a statewide system for recycling certain beverage containers. The bill defines various terms, including which beverages and containers are covered by the program and who is considered a "producer" (brand owner) responsible for compliance. It outlines mechanisms for consumers to return empty containers, such as "express redemption sites" (like reverse vending machines) and "full-service redemption sites," to receive a refund value. This system aims to promote the recycling of drinkable liquids sold in prepackaged containers.

Establishes a prekindergarten seat finder to support families in accessing high quality early childhood education programs for three (3) and four (4) year old children.

Allows continuing care providers to provide care in an individual’s home, subject to the same disclosures and requirements as continuing care provided in a facility.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 96 (SB 96) proposes to increase the monthly personal needs allowance for individuals residing in nursing facilities who receive medical assistance. Currently, these residents are allocated $75.00 per month for personal expenses. This bill would raise that allowance to $100.00 per month, directly affecting their available funds for personal use. The change would take effect on July 1, 2025.

Removes the age restriction for benefits coverage/requires, after 1/1/26, for policies issued or renewed include coverage for reimbursement for provider services at a rate equal to, or greater than, Medicaid establishments of EOHHS.

Maddy summarySB 898, known as the "Healthcare Worker Platform Act," establishes a new category for electronic platforms that connect healthcare workers with available shifts at healthcare facilities. This act specifically excludes these "healthcare worker platforms" from being classified as "nursing service agencies." It requires the Department of Health to create regulations by June 1, 2026, for the registration of these platforms operating within the state. The registration requirements for these platforms cannot exceed those already set for nursing service agencies.

Submits 2026 capital development program requesting the issuance of $100,000,000 in general obligation bonds to the voters for approval at the November, 2026, general election.

Grants tenants that are the victim of various forms of abuse, including, but not limited to, sexual and domestic abuse and stalking, the right to terminate a lease agreement early without penalty or liability for rent.

Changes utility company billing practices so that when a gas electric utility changes their customer billing, they are required to file a copy of the new bill with the PUC for approval, with a complete explanation of the changes.