Requires that all agencies' final rules, promulgated pursuant to the administrative procedures act, be approved by general assembly action, but in no case later than December 31 of the year it is promulgated before it can become effective.
Provides that the “meetings” requirements from § 34-36.1-3.08 be applicable to condominiums created before July 1, 1982, and would permit remote participation in condominium meetings.
Directs the general assembly to fund ten full time equivalent positions in FY 2026 to support DEM's efforts in the areas of forestry and forestry projects.
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.
Establishes an agricultural restricted receipt account within the department of environmental management. An advisory committee would be established to determine suggested uses of the funds in said account.
Maddy summarySB 915 eliminates the $25 fee (comprising a $20 service charge and $5 transfer fee) that Rhode Island National Guard members currently pay to obtain or renew special "National Guard" vehicle plates. It directly affects active and retired members of the Rhode Island Army and Air National Guard certified by the adjutant general. The bill does not change plate design, eligibility criteria, or emergency travel privileges for National Guard members. It would make these plates free for eligible members once enacted.
Maddy summarySB 587 would allow workers who are locked out by their employer during a labor dispute (such as when an employer refuses to bargain collectively) to receive unemployment benefits. It also permits benefits for workers on strike if they are not part of the union or group causing the dispute. The bill specifies that employers must offer to extend current wages and working conditions for up to three days before a lockout is considered valid, and excludes benefits if the lockout responds to a strike at another employer in a multi-employer bargaining group. This change directly affects workers involved in labor disputes and aims to provide financial support during workplace conflicts.
Provides that when 2 or more individuals associate to accomplish the crime of shoplifting, that they would be deemed to be associated for the particular purpose of shoplifting and be guilty of a felony.
Forbids a motor vehicle liability insurance carrier from considering the zip code of where an insured lives for purposes of calculating their policy premium.
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.
