Requires hosting platforms offering short-term rental of residential property for tourist or transient use to disclose on listings the current, valid registration number and its expiration date.
Prohibits contractors and subcontractors from paying employees the cash equivalent of any applicable healthcare benefit in lieu of actually purchasing the healthcare benefit. Violations would be subject to civil fines.
Maddy summarySB 2781 updates the state's Uniform Commercial Code to include modern definitions for emerging digital technologies. The bill amends the law's general provisions to formally define terms such as "electronic," "electronic document of title," and "control," ensuring these concepts apply to business transactions involving digital records. By clarifying how electronic documents function alongside traditional paper instruments, the legislation provides a consistent legal framework for buying, selling, and securing goods in the digital economy. These changes directly affect businesses and individuals engaged in commercial activities that rely on electronic systems for managing titles and contracts.
Permits Dyslexia Advocacy Rhode Island plates to be issued for passenger or commercial vehicles upon the satisfaction of the required criteria relative to the number of plates ordered.
Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a maximum interest rate for medical debt owed to healthcare facilities and professionals. Under the new rules, interest on such debt is capped between 1.5% and 4% per year, calculated based on federal Treasury yields, and applies only to debts created after the law takes effect. Additionally, the legislation prohibits charging any interest or late fees to patients who receive financial assistance. The changes directly affect consumers with unpaid medical bills and the healthcare entities that collect them.
Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits insurance companies from charging higher premiums to policyholders simply for asking questions about the terms of their coverage. It also prevents insurers from penalizing drivers for accidents or claims where the driver was not more than half at fault, or for property damage claims under $3,000. Additionally, the legislation bars insurers from refusing to renew policies or raising rates solely because a driver is 65 or older or because they volunteer for a nonprofit organization. These changes aim to restrict how insurers calculate rates and handle specific low-risk or non-fault situations.
Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new license for renewable energy professionals to allow them to perform specific non-electrical tasks related to solar installations, such as mounting equipment and installing support brackets. To obtain this license, applicants must pass an exam demonstrating proficiency in solar technology and pay an additional $72 fee. While these professionals can handle mechanical aspects of solar projects, the bill mandates that all electrical connections and system energization must still be completed by a licensed electrician. The changes primarily affect contractors and individuals seeking to enter the solar industry by defining a distinct role separate from traditional electrical contracting.
Reduces the time, from three (3) years to one year, required for a nonimmigrant foreign national student, who has resided in Rhode Island, to be eligible to pay the same in-state tuition as any other Rhode Island student.
Allocates five percent (5%) of revenues from the local meals and beverage tax to the Rhode Island Semiquincentennial (R.I. 250) Commission for the execution of its duties from July 1, 2024 to December 31, 2026.
Provides an option for members to receive retirement allowances, without reduction, upon reaching twenty-five (25) years of total service or after twenty (20) years of service upon reaching age fifty-seven (57).
