Requires grocery stores to specifically limit the number of self-service checkout units to six (6) units per location. The consumer protection unit of the department of attorney general would have authority to enforce these restrictions.
Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a beverage container deposit recycling program in Rhode Island to reduce litter and increase recycling rates for single-use drinks. Under the new system, consumers would pay a small fee when purchasing eligible containers made of glass, plastic, or metal, which they can redeem at drop-off facilities for a refund. The Department of Environmental Management will oversee the program, while designated producer responsibility organizations will manage compliance for manufacturers and distributors. The law defines specific rules for which products are covered, how producers are identified, and the standards for recycled content in new packaging.
Prohibits insurance companies from paying a rate that is less than the approved Medicaid rate set by the executive office of health and human services.
Maddy summarySB 2388 amends state laws to ensure that all home health care patients receive services regardless of whether they live permanently or temporarily in the state. The bill outlines specific rights for these patients, including the ability to refuse care, access their medical records, and receive information about costs and billing procedures. It also requires providers to document and investigate any complaints made by patients or their families. Additionally, the legislation mandates that insurance policies include clear provisions regarding contract terms and time limits on certain defenses.
Maddy summarySB 2343 proposes to change how hotel taxes are distributed within Rhode Island's South County regional tourism district. The bill would redirect a portion of these funds away from the regional tourism district and toward the local cities and towns where the hotels are physically located. Additionally, it adjusts the specific percentages allocated to the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation and the Greater Providence-Warwick Convention and Visitors' Bureau. This legislation directly affects hotel owners, local municipalities, and tourism organizations by altering the flow of tax revenue collected from lodging businesses.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates June 2024 as "Pride Month" in Rhode Island to honor the LGBTQIA+ community and celebrate progress made toward equality. The bill acknowledges ongoing challenges faced by these groups, including discrimination and disparities in health and housing, while highlighting local events like the Rhode Island PrideFest. It directs the Secretary of State to send copies of the resolution to state and federal officials, as well as various LGBTQIA+ organizations, to mark the occasion.
Protects the solvency of health systems, physicians, and advance practice providers and insurers, encourage fair treatment of hospitals and ensure adequate clinical workforce while advancing health equity.
Maddy summarySB 2225 repeals specific provisions in state law that required women participating in the community corrections program to pay additional costs for prostitution-related offenses. This change directly affects female offenders who are eligible for community confinement, removing the mandatory financial assessments of $500 or $350 for felony and misdemeanor charges respectively. By eliminating these fees, the bill ensures that women in the program are no longer subject to these extra penalties regardless of whether they are sentenced to prison or released into the community. The legislation removes the requirement for these funds to be deposited as general revenue, simplifying the financial obligations associated with this specific correctional pathway.
Prevents insurance companies from treating widowed persons differently than married persons when establishing or maintaining an insured's rate or classification respecting the operation of a personal motor vehicle. Effective 1/1/25.
Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a new tax credit for individuals and businesses that donate safe, edible food to qualified nonprofit organizations. Starting in 2025, donors can claim a credit equal to 75% of the food's fair market value, up to a maximum of $5,000 per year, while those who arrange transportation for the donation may also receive a 50% credit on those costs. To qualify, the donated food must be fit for human consumption, and the receiving nonprofit must use it to provide meals for people in need. The legislation requires nonprofits to issue certificates confirming the donation details and the intended use of the food, and it mandates annual reporting to the state legislature on how the credit is utilized.
