Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7287

Introduced
1/23/26  

Caption

Clarifies the process of depositing settlement funds from non-multi-state initiatives and require that settlements could not be spent without express general assembly authorization.

Impact

The bill significantly impacts the operations of the Attorney General's office by stipulating that no settlement funds can be appropriated or spent without explicit authorization from the General Assembly. By establishing a restricted receipt account, the Department of Attorney General is given clearer guidelines on how to handle certain settlement funds, which could improve operational transparency and potentially affect future legal agreements and settlements involving the state. This changes the landscape of fiscal management regarding settlement proceeds, previously subject to more lenient handling.

Summary

House Bill H7287 aims to clarify the processes involved in depositing settlement funds specifically linked to non-multi-state initiatives. Notably, H7287 proposes the establishment of a restricted receipt account within the Department of the Attorney General intended to manage funds received from settlements such as those from opioid-related claims against major distributors like McKesson Corporation and Cardinal Health, among others. This bill is rooted in ensuring accountability and proper utilization of funds recovered from legal settlements, particularly as they relate to state affairs and governance.

Contention

There may be points of contention surrounding H7287 regarding the level of oversight and control by the General Assembly over funds that could previously be managed with more discretion by the Attorney General's office. Critics may argue that this added layer of approval could slow down the operational capacity of the department, especially in urgent matters arising from settlement agreements. Proponents, on the other hand, may view this legislation as a necessary check on the use of public funds, ensuring that legislative oversight is maintained for all significant financial decisions concerning state settlements.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H6370

Provide to provide greater clarity in insurance claim settlements, the appraisal process and procedural safeguards to enhance consumer protections against bad faith practices by insurers.

RI S0149

Limits the governor to one thirty (30) day renewal of a declaration of emergency without a joint resolution of the general assembly.

RI H5433

Requires a report to be produced that focuses on prescription drug prior authorizations by January 1, 2026.

RI S0121

Requires a report to be produced that focuses on prescription drug prior authorizations by January 1, 2026.

RI H6317

Prohibits an insurer from imposing a requirement of prior authorization for any admission, item, service, treatment, test, exam, study, procedure, or any generic or brand name prescription drug ordered by a primary care provider.

RI H5120

Provides an insurer would not impose prior authorization requirements for any service ordered by an in-network primary care provider.

RI S0053

Provides an insurer would not impose prior authorization requirements for any service ordered by an in-network primary care provider.

RI H5085

Requires that all agencies' final rules, promulgated pursuant to the administrative procedures act, be approved by general assembly action, but in no case later than December 31 of the year it is promulgated before it can become effective.

RI S0852

Requires that all agencies' final rules, promulgated pursuant to the administrative procedures act, be approved by general assembly action, but in no case later than December 31 of the year it is promulgated before it can become effective.

RI S0168

Provides an insurer would not impose prior authorization requirements for any service ordered by an in-network primary care provider.

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