Creates a 5 member commission to recommend legislative proposals for blockchain and cryptocurrency, and submit an interim progress report by January 5, 2026, and a final report by January 5, 2027, and would expire on February 5, 2027.
Maddy summarySB 623 updates state casino crime laws to include online gambling (iGaming), adding "iGaming" to key definitions and ensuring age restrictions apply to digital platforms. It clarifies prohibited actions like cheating, fraud, or using unauthorized devices in both physical casinos and online games, maintaining existing penalties of up to 10 years in prison or $100,000 fines. The bill directly affects casinos, online gambling operators, and players by extending legal prohibitions to cover digital cheating methods. Key provisions include defining iGaming, updating "cheating device" rules for digital systems, and requiring compliance with age limits for online participation.
Maddy summaryThis bill requires health insurers in Rhode Island to disclose how they use artificial intelligence for managing coverage and claims. Insurers must report details like AI models used, training data, decision-making processes, and maintain 5-year records of AI-influenced decisions - including denials of medically necessary care. All AI-driven adverse benefit determinations must be reviewed and approved by a healthcare professional before finalizing, with their rationale documented. The law mandates annual reports to state regulators on AI usage, including performance metrics like denial rates and appeal outcomes, taking effect June 2026.
Raises the amount of life insurance the state provides at no charge to Rhode Island National Guard members called up for federal duty to five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000).
Amends the Identity Theft Protection Act by eliminating current definitions and establishing new definitions. This act also raises the penalty provisions for violations.
Maddy summarySB 1133 reclassifies unauthorized use or theft of gift cards as larceny or forgery under state law. It makes it a crime to steal or use a gift card without consent (under $1,500) or alter a gift card, subjecting offenders to larceny penalties (up to $1,000 fine or 1 year in jail) or forgery penalties. For amounts exceeding $1,500 or repeated offenses within six months, penalties escalate to standard larceny charges. This directly affects gift card holders (who may be defrauded), card issuers, and retailers, by treating gift card fraud as equivalent to traditional property theft under Chapter 6-59. The bill takes effect upon passage.
Authorizes the appropriation of the sum of $1,000,000 for the continued purchase, cancellation and forgiveness of medical debt consistent with section 35-4-21.1 of the General Laws.
Maddy summarySB 414 permits retired state employees, including paid members of the state labor relations board, to continue receiving their full retirement benefits while working in specific post-retirement roles. The bill amends retirement rules to clarify that retired members may serve in certain positions - such as on the labor relations board, as part-time teachers, or in limited judicial roles - without forfeiting benefits. Key provisions require employers to notify the retirement board monthly about such employment and prohibit additional retirement contributions or service credits for this work. The law specifically allows continued benefit receipt for roles like municipal board members, classroom instruction, or part-time nursing services, subject to annual pay limits.
Maddy summarySB 475, the "David Casey Act," requires public and private golf courses to have an automated external defibrillator (AED) on-site. This law expands existing requirements for AEDs at healthcare facilities and other public places (like schools, restaurants, and sports arenas) to specifically include golf courses. The bill mandates that all golf courses, regardless of whether they are publicly or privately operated, must maintain an AED accessible for immediate use in emergencies. This policy change directly affects golf course operators by adding a new safety equipment requirement.
Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 1136) formally recognizes June 2025 as "Portuguese American Heritage Month" in Rhode Island. It acknowledges the historical and ongoing contributions of Portuguese Americans to the state's cultural, economic, and social fabric, particularly highlighting communities in cities like Providence, Pawtucket, and Newport. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to share certified copies with the Governor, Portuguese officials, and the Rhode Island Day of Portugal nonprofit organization. As a ceremonial resolution, it does not create new laws or policies but serves to honor the community's legacy.
