Senate passes school-bond authorization and a package of health and election bills

The Rhode Island Senate approved a package of bills on March 14 that included a local school construction bond authorization, expanded HIV-prevention coverage, workforce protections for advanced practice nurses and an elections readability measure.

School construction bonds: The chamber passed an act authorizing the Chariho Regional School District to finance construction, furnishing and equipping of three elementary schools (one each in Charlestown, Richmond and Hopkinton) and campus improvements, authorizing up to $150,000,000 in bonds or notes. The bill specifies state housing-aid reimbursement at a share of not less than 61% at issuance, which may increase to as much as 76% on project completion. Senator Gu described the item as a local bond-authorizing bill; the act passed on the floor with a recorded tally reported as 33 affirmative and 1 negative.

PrEP/PEP insurance coverage: Senate bill concerning insurance coverage for the prevention of HIV infection (PrEP and PEP) was presented by Senator Murray, who said the medications are up to 99% effective when taken as directed and that co‑payments and deductibles drive patients from care. The bill, intended to restore prior coverage intent and expand access for high‑risk individuals, passed by voice vote with the clerk announcing 34 affirmative votes and none opposed.

APRN noncompete ban: A bill by Senator Lauria that prohibits restrictive covenants and noncompete clauses in employment agreements for advanced practice registered nurses (APRN) was approved unanimously. Sponsors argued that protecting continuity in patient-provider relationships helps address Rhode Island’s documented shortage of providers.

Elections readability: Chairman McKinney presented legislation intended to improve the clarity of ballot measures for voters; he noted similar laws in other states and collaboration with the Secretary of State’s office. The bill passed on the floor as announced by the clerk.

Votes at a glance (as announced on the floor):
- Chariho school bond (authorization up to $150,000,000): 33 yes, 1 no; outcome: passed.
- PrEP/PEP insurance coverage bill: 34 yes, 0 no; outcome: passed.
- APRN noncompete ban: 35 yes, 0 no; outcome: passed.
- Elections readability bill: voice vote reported in favor; outcome: passed.

What’s next: Local school bond projects remain subject to statutory requirements for state housing-aid approvals and local implementation. The insurance and workforce measures take effect according to statutory timelines and administrative rulemaking where applicable.