This week at the Rhode Island General Assembly, several key pieces of legislation made significant progress. Among the highlights were the passing of bills aimed at increasing penalties for dangerous driving offenses, expanding access to ADHD medications, and improving mental health support in schools. The Assembly also saw the introduction of measures addressing environmental concerns, dual enrollment in higher education, and expanding contraceptive access. Additionally, the passing of Senate President Dominick Ruggerio’s death marked a somber moment in the legislature’s work.
Senate President Dominick Ruggerio Passes Away
Senate President Dominick J. Ruggerio, 76, passed away this week. First elected to the Senate in 1984, he became Senate president in March 2017. Prior to his Senate role, he served in the House of Representatives from 1981 to 1984. In honor of his passing, all Senate business, including sessions and committee meetings, were canceled this week. His funeral is scheduled for Monday.
House OKs Bill to Increase Penalties for Certain Driving Offenses
The House of Representatives approved a bill (2025-H 5638) introduced by Rep. Patricia A. Serpa (D-Dist. 27) to increase penalties for individuals who fail to stop at accidents resulting in personal injury or death, drive recklessly causing death, or drive under the influence resulting in death. The legislation now moves to the Senate.
House Passes Bill to Expand Definition of Aggressive Driving
Rep. Thomas E. Noret’s (D-Dist. 25) bill (2025-H 5899) to add five new violations to the definition of aggressive driving passed the House this week. The new violations include laws on overtaking on the left, obedience to police officers, and lane restrictions. The bill heads to the Senate for consideration.
House Approves ADHD Medication Prescription Bill
Rep. Michelle McGaw’s (D-Dist. 71) bill (2025-H 5866A) to allow a 60-day supply of non-opioid ADHD medications was passed by the House. The bill aims to reduce the burden on patients and physicians by allowing longer prescriptions. It now moves to the Senate.
House OKs Bill to Extend Recount Request Deadline
Rep. Jennifer Boylan’s (D-Dist. 66) bill (2025-H 5384) to extend the deadline for candidates to request a recount, ensuring overseas ballots are counted, was approved by the House. The bill is now with the Senate.
House Approves Bill to Lift 3-Month Limit on Pharmacist-Prescribed Contraception
Rep. Edith H. Ajello’s (D-Dist. 1) bill (2025-H 6038) to eliminate the three-month limit on pharmacist-prescribed hormonal contraceptives passed the House. The legislation aims to improve accessibility for patients, especially amid a shortage of primary care providers. It will now be considered by the Senate.
House Passes Bill to Promote Strong School Mental and Behavioral Health Policies
Rep. Megan L. Cotter’s (D-Dist. 39) bill (2025-H 5165A) requiring school districts to establish a comprehensive mental health and behavioral support policy was approved by the House. The bill moves to the Senate.
McEntee Introduces Bottle Bill
Rep. Carol Hagan McEntee’s (D-Dist. 33) bill (2025-H 6207) to increase recycling rates, particularly for food and beverage waste, has been introduced. The bill is based on recommendations from the Special Joint Legislative Commission on Plastic Bottle Waste. It has been referred to the House Environment and Natural Resources Committee.
O’Brien Bill Would Keep Funds at Public Institutions for Dual Enrollment
Rep. William W. O’Brien’s (D-Dist. 54) bill (2025-H 6058) clarifying that only public higher education institutions can participate in the state’s dual enrollment program was introduced this week. The bill has been referred to the House Education Committee.
Bills to Support Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Treatment
Sen. Linda L. Ujifusa (D-Dist. 11) and Rep. Teresa A. Tanzi (D-Dist. 34) introduced two bills aimed at improving access to mental health and substance use disorder treatment. One bill would require insurers to follow accepted care standards, while the other would eliminate prior authorization for in-network mental health treatment.
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