As summer heats up here in Rhode Island, so does the impact of new laws passed during this year’s legislative session. While politicians and lawyers might get excited about the nitty-gritty details, what really matters is how these changes affect everyday folks like us. Let’s break down some of the most important new laws and what they could mean for your wallet and well-being.

Protecting Your Paycheck

First up, let’s talk about money – specifically, your hard-earned cash. A new law now prohibits landlords from charging you “convenience fees” just for paying your rent. That’s right, no more sneaky charges for using a credit card or online payment system to pay your landlord. This might seem small, but those fees can add up fast, especially if you’re living paycheck to paycheck.

Speaking of paychecks, there’s good news for workers in Rhode Island. The state has expanded its Temporary Caregiver Insurance program, which means you can now take more time off to care for a new baby or a sick family member without worrying about losing your entire income. This is a big deal for new parents or anyone with elderly relatives who need extra help.

For those working in construction or other trades, there’s a new law that requires contractors to provide healthcare benefits to employees on public works projects. This could mean better health coverage for many workers who might not have had access to affordable insurance before.

Making Housing More Affordable

Finding an affordable place to live in Rhode Island can be tough, but some new laws aim to make it a little easier. One big change is that cities and towns now have to allow more accessory dwelling units – think in-law apartments or converted garages. This could mean more affordable rental options or a way for homeowners to earn extra income by renting out part of their property.

Another law requires new housing developments to include a certain percentage of affordable units. While this might sound like boring zoning talk, it could translate to more reasonably priced apartments and homes hitting the market in the coming years.

For renters, there’s added protection against sudden rent hikes. Landlords now have to give more notice before raising rent. This gives folks on limited incomes more time to plan and budget for increases, or to find a new place.

Saving on Energy and Utilities

Nobody likes high utility bills, right? Well, good news – the state has extended its utility termination moratorium. This means your heat can’t be shut off between November 1 and May 1, even if you’re behind on payments. It’s not a free pass to skip bills, but it does provide a safety net during the coldest months.

There’s also a push for more renewable energy, which could lead to lower energy costs in the long run. The state is promoting solar and wind power development on old, contaminated sites. While it might take a while to see the benefits, this could eventually mean cheaper, cleaner energy for everyone.

Consumer Protections

Ever feel like you’re getting nickel-and-dimed by big companies? A couple of new laws might help with that. One prohibits life insurance companies from denying you coverage just because you’ve been prescribed an opioid antagonist (like Narcan). This is a big deal for people who carry these life-saving drugs to help others in case of an overdose.

Another law bans the use of PFAS (a harmful chemical) in consumer products by 2027. While that might sound like scientific jargon, it basically means safer cookware, clothing, and other everyday items in the future.

Transportation and Safety

If you’re a driver, you might be interested to know that used car dealers now have to provide new inspection certificates when selling a vehicle. This could save you from costly surprises down the road.

For those who bike, there are new rules about electric bicycles. They’re now classified and regulated like regular bikes in many ways, which could make them a more accessible transportation option for commuting or recreation.

Good News for Rhode Island Businesses

While many of the new laws focus on individuals, there’s plenty for local businesses to celebrate too. Let’s look at some changes that could help Rhode Island’s entrepreneurs and companies thrive.

The film industry got a major boost with expanded tax credits for motion picture productions filmed in Rhode Island. This isn’t just good news for Hollywood types – it means more jobs for local crew members, caterers, and other support services. If you’ve ever dreamed of working in the movies, this could be your chance.

For small business owners, dealing with paperwork can be a real headache. A new law centralizes trade name registration with the Secretary of State, requiring annual renewals and updating filing requirements. While it might sound boring, this streamlined process could save business owners time and frustration.

Alcohol producers, like breweries and wineries, can now sell more of their products directly to consumers. This is great news for our local craft beverage scene, potentially leading to more tasting rooms and factory tours that could boost tourism and create jobs.

In case of a state-declared disaster, out-of-state businesses coming to help won’t get tangled up in taxes and licensing requirements. This might not affect your day-to-day, but it could mean faster recovery for our communities if disaster strikes.

Interesting and Unusual New Laws

Now, let’s lighten the mood with some of the more unusual additions to Rhode Island’s law books. These might not change your life, but they made it into this year’s book of new laws.

In a move that might appeal to waste-not-want-not types, drivers who accidentally hit a deer now have first dibs on keeping the carcass. It’s not for everyone, but if you’re into wild game, this could be an unexpected silver lining to an unfortunate accident.

April 5th is now officially Gold Star Spouses Day in Rhode Island. While it’s not a day off work, it’s a thoughtful nod to those who’ve lost a partner in military service.

Providence Canteen vehicles, which provide support to first responders, are now authorized as emergency vehicles complete with sirens. Don’t be surprised if you see (and hear) these food trucks racing to the scene of an emergency.

The state took the time to officially name a specific portion of the Blackstone River Bike Path after Albert P. Valliere. While it might seem oddly specific, it shows that even small tributes can make it into state law.

A new program allows drivers with autism to carry a blue envelope containing their license and registration. This voluntary program aims to improve interactions between these drivers and police during traffic stops.

These are just a taste of the many laws passed this year. From major policy shifts to small, community-specific measures, the Rhode Island General Assembly has been busy shaping our state’s future.

Some of these laws do not take effect until the new year. We encourage all Rhode Islanders to take a closer look at the full list of new laws below (we’ve provided a quick one-line summary for you skimmer types, and a more comprehensive summary if you click the bill). You never know which one might directly impact your life, your business, or your community.

Stay informed, stay engaged, and remember that your voice matters in shaping the laws that govern our state. Whether it’s a law that affects your paycheck, your business, or just adds a bit of quirk to our state’s character, these changes are part of what makes Rhode Island unique. Keep an eye out for how these laws unfold in your daily life – you might be surprised at the difference they make.

Remember, staying informed about these changes is the first step to making the most of them. If you have questions about how a specific law might affect you, don’t hesitate to reach out to local officials or community organizations for more information. After all, these laws were made for you – it’s time to make them work for you.

Go: Full Breakdown – New Rhode Island Laws for 2024