Prevents insurance companies from treating widowed persons differently than married persons when establishing or maintaining an insured's rate or classification respecting the operation of a personal motor vehicle. Effective 1/1/25.
Increases the income range up to fifty thousand dollars ($50,000) and tax credit up to eight hundred fifty dollars ($850), for elderly and disabled persons who own or rent their homes.
Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a new state fund to provide tuition and related expense assistance to individuals pursuing teacher certification in shortage fields, specifically science and mathematics for grades seven through twelve. To qualify, applicants must be enrolled in a Rhode Island postsecondary program to become teachers in these areas, and the financial aid is intended to cover costs such as tuition, room, board, and books after other aid has been applied. Recipients are required to complete at least three years of full-time teaching in a shortage field within the state, or the assistance they received will convert into a loan that must be repaid. The Office of the Postsecondary Commissioner will administer the program, update the list of shortage fields biennially, and report annually on the fund's usage while maintaining applicant privacy.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution commemorates the 170th anniversary of the 1854 U.S.-Japan Treaty of Peace and Amity, which established formal diplomatic relations between the two nations. The bill highlights the historical significance of Commodore Matthew Perry's expedition and celebrates the enduring partnership between the United States and Japan, as well as specific ties between Rhode Island and Japan in areas like trade, education, and culture. It directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to federal officials, the President, and the Japanese Consul General to formally acknowledge this milestone.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates May 2024 as "National Speech-Language-Hearing Month" in Rhode Island to raise awareness about communication disorders. The bill urges state agencies, including the Departments of Human Services and Elementary and Secondary Education, to organize hearing screenings and special events during this month. It also encourages educators, specialists, and the public to acknowledge the work of audiologists and speech-language pathologists who help individuals manage these conditions. By transmitting copies of the resolution to relevant officials and organizations, the state aims to promote better understanding and support for those affected by hearing, language, and speech issues.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution formally recognizes the Manissean Tribal Natives of Block Island and honors their ancestors and descendants. It acknowledges the tribe's long history on the island, noting their significant population decline over time and their traditional lifestyle of fishing, hunting, and farming. The bill directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to the current President of the Manissean Tribe. This measure serves as a symbolic gesture to support the preservation of the tribe's culture and historical sites rather than enacting new laws or funding.
Maddy summaryThis bill, known as the Defending Affordable Prescription Drug Costs Act, aims to protect pharmacies that participate in the federal 340B drug discount program from unfair treatment by insurance companies and drug manufacturers. It prohibits health insurers and pharmacy benefit managers from charging these pharmacies lower reimbursement rates, imposing extra fees, or creating different contract terms compared to other pharmacies. Additionally, the law prevents pharmaceutical manufacturers from stopping or interfering with these pharmacies from receiving discounted drugs. Any violations of these rules are treated as deceptive trade practices, though the bill does not allow for private lawsuits by individuals.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution expresses the state's condolences for the passing of Ronald R. Champagne, a former Cumberland police officer and community leader. The bill honors his life by acknowledging his 22 years of public service and his long-standing involvement in local civic organizations. It directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to Champagne's widow, Sally Champagne, as a formal gesture of respect.
Maddy summaryThis bill proposes to increase the number of days retired municipal employees can work without losing their pension benefits from 75 to 90 days per calendar year. Under the current rules, any work beyond this limit would temporarily suspend pension payments, whereas this change would allow for slightly more flexibility in returning to work. The provision specifically excludes police officers from this rule when they work on private details paid for by non-governmental entities. Additionally, retired members would continue to receive their full pension while serving as elected city council or school committee members.
Extends the sunset date of the Rhode Island hope scholarship pilot program act from 2028 to 2030, in order to allow the program to provide eligible students with funding for tuition and mandatory fees for an additional two (2) years.
