Sen. Bridget Valverde

Establishes that Medicaid eligibility in RI can only be determined using state-controlled data, prohibit private entity data in eligibility decisions, and ensure terminations are made by human employees rather than automated systems.

Prohibits state and municipal officials or body from entering into and renewing any agreements that will be used to detain individuals for federal civil immigration violations.

Maddy summarySB 362 exempts foster care youth in Rhode Island from paying tuition fees for driver education courses at the Community College of Rhode Island. The bill amends existing law to specifically include individuals receiving foster caregiving in foster and adoptive homes (as defined by state law) under a fee waiver program. This change directly affects foster youth aged 15+ seeking driver's education, removing a financial barrier to obtaining a driver's license. The provision applies to the standard 33-hour classroom driver education program offered through the college.

Gives authority to the department of labor and training to enforce violations of the laws relating to corrosion prevention and mitigation work requirements. This act would also add civil monetary penalties for violations of those laws.

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.

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.

Includes the COVID-19 immunization under the consent and reporting provisions required for pharmacy administered immunizations to individuals between nine (9) and eighteen (18) years of age.

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 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.

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.