Rhode Island General Assembly Advances Key Legislation on Health Care, Housing, Veterans’ Services
Senate Moves Forward on Health Care Reform
The Senate approved several bills aimed at making health care more affordable and accessible. Among them: a measure prohibiting medical debt-related home liens, interest rate caps on new medical debt, and legislation reducing prescription drug costs. Other bills would ease prior authorization requirements, expand pharmacists’ ability to vaccinate, and address the state’s medical licensing backlog.
Housing Package Clears House
Three bills from Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi’s housing package were approved by the House. These measures aim to expand e-permitting, streamline affordable housing approvals, and accelerate the use of state-owned land for new housing projects.
Senate Supports Changing Stations in Public Buildings
A Senate bill would require universal changing stations in all new or renovated public buildings beginning in 2027. It now heads to the House.
Car Lease Registration Bill Advances
Legislation to allow one-year DMV registration renewals on 36-month leased cars passed the Senate. It also provides credit options for canceled registrations.
Mental Health, Privacy, and Education Bills Approved
The Senate passed a bill to stabilize funding for the state’s psychiatric resource network and another to protect consumer genetic data. Lawmakers also approved extending teacher certifications to address the state’s educator shortage.
Expanded Hair Services for Disabled Rhode Islanders
A new bill allows licensed hairdressers to offer in-home services to individuals with disabilities or sensory-related needs.
Synthetic Media Ban Near Elections Passes House
The House passed a bill banning synthetic or AI-generated depictions of political candidates within 90 days of an election if they could mislead voters.
Veterans Bills Clear Senate
The Senate approved three bills supporting veterans, including waiving VIN inspection and registration fees and expanding access to special license plates for decorated veterans. All measures now await House action.
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