Requires the producer of artificial turf and turf infill sold or distributed in Rhode Island to report its chain of custody, from installation to use, repurposing, recycling and disposal.
Sen. Pam Lauria
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial Senate Resolution (SR 935), not a substantive bill. It formally celebrates "URI Day" at the Rhode Island State House on April 1, 2025, to recognize the University of Rhode Island (URI) for its educational, research, and economic contributions to the state. The resolution highlights URI's status as a top-ranked public university and its role in workforce development, without creating any new legal requirements or affecting specific individuals or entities. It directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to URI's president.
Maddy summarySB 683 expands collaborative pharmacy practice by allowing non-physician healthcare providers (such as nurse practitioners or physician assistants) to enter into formal agreements with pharmacists to manage patient drug therapy. These agreements, which must be submitted to the board of pharmacy for record-keeping without requiring approval, will enable pharmacists and non-physician providers to jointly review medication regimens, adjust treatments, and perform limited clinical tests like blood glucose monitoring. The agreements must be reviewed and renewed annually, with significant changes requiring re-submission. The bill takes effect on July 1, 2025.
Requires that any covered entity that develops/provides online services, products, or features that children are reasonably likely to access shall consider the best interest of children when designing/developing such online service, product, or feature.
Adds new sections that set forth conditions for pharmacists to prescribe tobacco cessation drug therapies, including education approved by state board of pharmacy. The cessation therapies to be covered by all health insurance carriers on or after 1/1/26.
Maddy summarySB 197 prohibits insurance companies from requiring patients to pay deductibles, copays, or coinsurance for diagnostic and supplemental breast examinations. It directly affects individuals enrolled in group or individual health insurance plans by eliminating out-of-pocket costs for these specific exams. Diagnostic exams evaluate abnormalities found during screening or other exams, while supplemental exams screen for breast cancer in high-risk cases based on medical history. The law takes effect January 1, 2026, applying to all health insurance plans covered under the bill's provisions.
Maddy summarySB 377 establishes the "2025 Rhode Island Broadband Transparency and Consumer Protection Act" to prevent state regulation of broadband services like VoIP and internet-based communications. It requires Internet service providers (ISPs) to submit data on speeds, technology, and coverage to the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation, which will create and maintain an updated statewide broadband map. This map will identify underserved areas and guide infrastructure planning, using data from ISPs, speed tests, and public sources. The bill aims to ensure all Rhode Island residents and businesses have access to reliable, affordable, and robust broadband service by prioritizing transparency over regulatory barriers.
Amends powers/duties of the office of the health insurance commissioner to increase total cost of care for services reimbursed under contracts after risk adjustment that exceeds the Consumer Price Index for all Urban Consumers percentage increase.
Allows the office of health insurance commissioner (OHIC) as the state agency that has the authority to designate patient-centered medical home (PCMH) care to obtain maximal health outcomes.
Requires EOHHS to develop a budget and seek funding to establish an early childhood mental health hub program to improve access to infant and early childhood mental health services for children under six (6) years and their families.