Government
Public services and government action
New RI Laws Focus on Workplace Rights, Child Safety, and Voting Access
From new workplace protections for menopause to tougher penalties for attempted kidnapping and a major expansion of mail-in voting access for all Rhode Islanders, the legislature has been busy. We break down what these new laws mean for you and your family in our latest report.
New Laws Target Infrastructure, Restaurants, and Your Prescriptions
From rusty bridges to ruined restaurants and pharmacy frustrations, the RI legislature passed a slate of new laws this summer aimed at fixing some very real-world problems. We're breaking down what you need to know about new rules for infrastructure, outdoor dining, and prescription transfers.
New Laws Target Education, Coastal Access, and Healthcare
New RI laws are on the books. We're breaking down a major change for your kid's school day, a new rule to protect public shoreline access, and a plan to bring more doctors to the state. Here’s what you need to know about how these new laws will affect you.
Your Guide to New Laws: Housing, Voting, and Debt Protection
This summer, RI lawmakers overhauled how the state funds affordable housing, changed mail-in voting to protect your ballot, and updated debt laws to shield your car and cash from creditors. Here’s what you need to know about these significant new laws and how they will affect you.
Summer Guide to New Laws: Tax Hikes for Landlords and Narcan on the Beach
New RI laws are here. While lifeguards get equipped with life-saving Narcan, a major shift in property taxes hits Providence and Pawtucket. We break down the new rules for landlords in these cities and what it means for you and your wallet.
New RI Laws Target Health Care Hassles and Digital Decency
The RI legislature was busy this summer. We're breaking down new laws that could change your next doctor's visit and provide new protections against online harassment. From slashing insurance red tape to criminalizing "revenge porn," here's what you need to know about the latest from Smith Hill.
Your Guide to New Laws: Payday Loans, Pay Stubs, and Prescription Costs
This summer, Rhode Island lawmakers passed major changes affecting your finances. From the end of payday lending to new rules for your pay stub and protections for affordable drug programs, we break down what you need to know about the new laws that will directly impact your wallet.
Your Guide to New Laws: A Pay Bump and Big Breaks on Medical Debt
In this installment of our ongoing series, we're focusing on two key areas: your paycheck and the often-crushing weight of healthcare costs. These changes could mean more money in your pocket and powerful new protections when you're most vulnerable.
New RI Laws Target 'Forever Chemicals,' Predatory Home Contracts, and Overdose Prevention
Our all-new series breaks down all of the new laws you need to know about in the ocean state.
Red States Embrace Government-Run Healthcare, Crush Corporate Monopolies
Conservative states Ohio, Kentucky, and Mississippi ditched corporate healthcare middlemen for government-run prescription drug programs, saving $423 million while increasing pharmacy payments by 1200%. The stunning success exposes how "socialist" policies actually work when we focus on results over political labels.