Sen. Stefano Famiglietti

Maddy summarySB 2640 would establish a new type of tax-advantaged savings account designed for unexpected major expenses like natural disasters or serious medical emergencies. The bill creates a legal framework for these "catastrophe savings accounts," allowing taxpayers to contribute funds under specific state tax rules. It would directly affect individuals who qualify to open such accounts for emergency expenses. The bill was introduced to the Senate Commerce committee on February 27, 2026, and remains in the early stages of consideration.

Adds criminal penalties for operation of a motor vehicle after a suspension for lack of physical or mental fitness, or as a result of frequency of offenses pursuant to § 31-11-7 (a)(1)(i) or as result of a court ordered suspension.

Maddy summarySB 2204 clarifies definitions and prohibits deceptive practices specifically in insurance claim handling, directly affecting policyholders, insureds, and businesses making insurance claims. It defines key terms like "claimant," "insurance claim handling services," and "unfair or deceptive acts," explicitly banning tactics such as misrepresenting repairs, hiding rebate terms, or falsely advertising claim resolutions. The bill requires insurers and claim handlers to provide transparent information about claim processes and pricing, such as separately stating labor costs or disclosing repair defects. These changes aim to increase accountability in how insurers process claims, reducing misleading practices that impact consumers during the claims experience.

Strengthens consumer protections in insurance claims by expanding definitions of unfair claims settlement practices and clarifies an insured’s right to pursue bad-faith remedies.

Requires the director of the Rhode Island emergency management agency and the Rhode Island commerce commission to develop and implement a plan to assist businesses in obtaining flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance program.

Strengthens consumer protections in insurance claims by improving the fairness and timeliness of arbitration and appraisal proceedings, and preventing insurers from delaying or obstructing the dispute resolution process.

Makes construction contractors civilly liable and/or jointly civilly liable for any claims of wage theft or nonpayment from an employee against the contractor, its subcontractors and any subcontractor.

Ensures that the State of Rhode Island adopt the protections afforded under the Occupational Safety and Health Act if its scope or enforcement capacity is diminished.

Authorizes a blanket permit and fee to allow the movement of self-propelled cranes which are in excess of size and weight load requirements, to move on state highways.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution welcomes the Narragansett Council of Scouting America to the Rhode Island State House and celebrates Scouting Month in February. The bill recognizes the council's youth development programs, community service efforts, and educational opportunities provided to thousands of Rhode Island youth and their families. It formally thanks Scouts and volunteer leaders for their contributions to leadership training, food drives, and outdoor education programs throughout the state. The resolution authorizes the Secretary of State to send a certified copy to the council's executive director.