Characterizes the failure of a homeowner's insurance policy to use matching principle in its interpretation of replacement cost coverage in its homeowner's insurance policy, as an unfair claim settlement practices.
Sen. Pam Lauria
Sponsored bills
Requires insurance companies to settle claims or request additional information within 30 days of receipt of a notice of claim. Failure to comply results in $250/day payable to the insured party.
Maddy summaryThis bill appropriates $118,422 in state funding to the Rhode Island Parent Information Network (RIPIN) to support its Dual Ombudsman program, which assists approximately 40,000 Rhode Islanders who receive both Medicare and Medicaid coverage. The program helps these individuals navigate complex healthcare enrollment rules, resolve claim denials, access care, and understand changes in their coverage options. The funding would match federal Medicaid dollars to maintain the program's current capacity for the 2027 fiscal year, preventing its termination as proposed in the state budget. This support is particularly important during a major transition in Rhode Island's managed care system for dual-eligible enrollees, when fewer trusted resources are available to help them navigate their healthcare options.
Increases continuing education requirements for physician assistants, removes restrictions of PAs to render charitable care and aid for school and youth programs or cardiac arrest and removes restrictive covenants as to ownership by a PA.
Creates a Rhode Island specialty license for physician assistants who earn the NCCPA psychiatry CAQ, formally recognizing advanced behavioral health qualifications and supporting appropriate insurance reimbursement.
Creates a new license for eyelash service technicians, requires permit for eyelash businesses, establishes training and exam standards, authorizes RIDOH enforcement and fines, and imposes a $500 penalty for an unlicensed practice.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution celebrates the 172nd anniversary of the 1854 Treaty of Peace and Amity between the United States and Japan, highlighting the long-standing diplomatic, cultural, and economic relationship between Rhode Island and Japan. The bill designates March 31 as "Japan Day" in Rhode Island to honor the treaty signing date and recognizes various institutions and events that promote U.S.-Japan cooperation. It authorizes the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to state and federal officials, as well as the Consul General of Japan, to formally acknowledge the partnership.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution congratulates the Blackstone Valley Schools Boys Co-Op ice hockey team for winning the 2026 Rhode Island Division II State Championship. The bill recognizes the team's achievement after they returned to competition following a tragic shooting at Lynch Arena that killed three people just a month earlier. It highlights specific players and coaches who contributed to the team's success, including Colin Dorgan, who scored a game-tying goal in the championship match. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies to the team's head coach and all roster members.
Regulates property insurers to limit underwriting and investment in fossil fuel projects, requires climate risk reporting and emissions disclosures, and aligns insurance practices with science-based climate targets.
Maddy summarySB 2052 would allow Rhode Island residents aged 70 or older to automatically be excused from jury duty without needing to request it. This change directly affects older adults who might otherwise receive jury summons. The bill amends existing law by adding "any person seventy (70) years of age or older" to the list of exempt groups, alongside current exemptions like government officials and active law enforcement. It takes effect immediately upon passage.