A chronicle of Rhode Island legislation
The 2026 Rhode Island legislative session brought major changes to housing, environmental protections, consumer privacy, and healthcare. Read our comprehensive breakdown of the new laws and how they will impact your daily life.
Read the full storyThis bill allows people to sue federal agents in RI state court for rights violations and removes immunity defenses.
This bill creates strict privacy rules for direct-to-consumer DNA testing companies, requiring clear consent for data use and sharing.
Public utilities must maintain a physical customer service office located within Rhode Island to assist customers in person.
Allows bankrupt hospitals to use a faster, simplified application process when being sold or converted to new ownership.
This bill requires voters to provide a driver's license or Social Security number on mail ballot applications to verify identity.
This bill bans the sale of many household products, artificial turf, and firefighting gear containing harmful PFAS chemicals.