Maddy summaryThis bill appropriates $118,422 in state funding to the Rhode Island Parent Information Network (RIPIN) to support its Dual Ombudsman program, which assists approximately 40,000 Rhode Islanders who receive both Medicare and Medicaid coverage. The program helps these individuals navigate complex healthcare enrollment rules, resolve claim denials, access care, and understand changes in their coverage options. The funding would match federal Medicaid dollars to maintain the program's current capacity for the 2027 fiscal year, preventing its termination as proposed in the state budget. This support is particularly important during a major transition in Rhode Island's managed care system for dual-eligible enrollees, when fewer trusted resources are available to help them navigate their healthcare options.
Sponsored bills
Increases continuing education requirements for physician assistants, removes restrictions of PAs to render charitable care and aid for school and youth programs or cardiac arrest and removes restrictive covenants as to ownership by a PA.
Requires any entity that knowingly collects, shares or sells to third parties the personal data of a consumer to register with the department of business regulations and permits for the consumer to request deletion of the personal data.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution celebrates the 172nd anniversary of the 1854 Treaty of Peace and Amity between the United States and Japan, highlighting the long-standing diplomatic, cultural, and economic relationship between Rhode Island and Japan. The bill designates March 31 as "Japan Day" in Rhode Island to honor the treaty signing date and recognizes various institutions and events that promote U.S.-Japan cooperation. It authorizes the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to state and federal officials, as well as the Consul General of Japan, to formally acknowledge the partnership.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution honors the courage and compassion of eleven individuals who provided aid and protection during a shooting at Lynch Arena in Pawtucket on February 16, 2026. The bill specifically recognizes these Good Samaritans for their actions in disarming the shooter, rendering medical assistance, protecting victims, and offering comfort during the crisis. It directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to each named individual as a formal expression of gratitude from the Rhode Island Senate.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution congratulates the Blackstone Valley Schools Boys Co-Op ice hockey team for winning the 2026 Rhode Island Division II State Championship. The bill recognizes the team's achievement after they returned to competition following a tragic shooting at Lynch Arena that killed three people just a month earlier. It highlights specific players and coaches who contributed to the team's success, including Colin Dorgan, who scored a game-tying goal in the championship match. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies to the team's head coach and all roster members.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution commemorates March 25, 2026, as the 205th anniversary of Greek Independence Day and celebrates the shared democratic values between Greece and the United States. The bill acknowledges historical ties, including American support during Greece's war for independence and the ongoing strategic partnership between the two nations. It formally recognizes the Greek-American community's contributions to Rhode Island and directs the Secretary of State to send copies of the resolution to Greek Orthodox churches, the U.S. Congressional delegation, and Greek diplomatic and religious leaders.
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.
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.