Sen. Lori Urso

Maddy summarySB 2508 allows caterers with a Class P license to purchase alcoholic beverages from either retail or wholesale businesses within Rhode Island, expanding their previous purchasing options. This directly affects licensed caterers (who pay a $500 annual fee) by giving them flexibility in where they source alcohol, though wholesalers may set minimum order requirements or refuse orders. The bill also clarifies that caterers may deliver and remove alcohol at events, or leave it at a host's residence only if the caterer maintains full control of the alcohol during the event. Key operational rules remain, including ID checks for under-30 guests, limits on drink servings, and a maximum 5-hour service period per event.

Permits a nurse who has the appropriate knowledge, credentials and clinical competency, to provide home services foot care, which includes routine foot and nail care, as well as implementing a plan of care that includes hygiene and fingernails.

Provides measures to prevent title fraud by authorizing the recorder of deeds to require the production of a government-issued photographic identification card before recording a deed or certain other instruments.

Amends the Rhode Island Fair Housing Practices Act to clarify housing-status enforcement, ban discriminatory housing notices, align state law with federal standards and remove a ban on public discussion of fair housing cases.

Directs the general assembly to fund ten full time equivalent positions in FY 2027 to support DEM's efforts in the areas of forestry and forestry projects.

Authorizes an increase in resource eligibility limits for persons with long-term-care needs who reside at home and requires semi-annual reports from Medicaid certified assisted living facilities and adult day service providers to the EOHHS.

Maddy summarySB 2388 freezes the issuance of new home care, home nursing, and hospice provider licenses until July 1, 2031, with limited exceptions for emergencies, pending applications, ownership changes, or geographic service gaps. During the moratorium, the Department of Health must conduct a statewide study to assess current service availability, underserved areas, and future needs. The maximum number of licenses for each category is capped at the 2026 count, decreasing annually if providers close. If the health department fails to complete the study by 2031, the license freeze remains in effect.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution designates April 16, 2026, as "Rhode Island Manufacturers Association Recognition Day" within the State of Rhode Island. The measure directly affects the Rhode Island Manufacturers Association by formally acknowledging its contributions to the state's manufacturing sector. Upon passage, the Secretary of State must transmit a certified copy of the resolution to the association.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution honors family medicine physicians in Rhode Island for their dedication to patient care and advocacy. It formally recognizes their role in improving health outcomes and addresses policymakers on their behalf during Advocacy Day on April 16, 2026. The bill directs the Secretary of State to send copies of the resolution to the Rhode Island Academy of Family Physicians to acknowledge their contributions.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution designates April 16, 2026, as "Community College of Rhode Island Day" to recognize the institution's contributions to the state's education and economy. The measure directly affects the Community College of Rhode Island by honoring its role in workforce development and student success. It requires the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to the college's president as a formal acknowledgment. The text highlights the college's impact on job creation and economic growth but does not alter any laws or policies.