PROVIDENCE — Two bills aimed most specifically women's health and safety issues sponsored by East Bay legislators were among the latest passed by the full General Assembly earlier this week.

A bill sponsored in the upper chamber by Sen. Pamela J. Lauria D-Dist. 32, Barrington, Bristol, East Providence) and Rep. Carol Hagan McEntee to help sexual assault victims access the state fund that assists victims of violent crime with the costs they’ve faced as a result.

In addition, a bill sponsored in the lower chamber by East Providence Rep. Briana Henries (D-Dist. 64, East Providence) specifies the requirements and procedures for licensing lactation counselors.

The Lauria legislation (2024-S 2767A, 2024-H 7449A), which now goes to the governor, would enable victims of sexual assault to submit a medical forensic exam performed within 15 days of the assault by a licensed health care provider in lieu of a police report in order to establish eligibility for funds from the Crime Victim Compensation Program. The program reimburses victims for expenses resulting from crimes, such as medical and counseling costs, cleaning, relocation, loss of earnings, funeral expenses and more.

The legislation was submitted on behalf of General Treasurer James A. Diossa, whose office administers the Crime Victim Compensation Program. Under current law, crime victims must file a police report in order to qualify for funds through the program. But according to the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network, 70% of sexual assaults go unreported, meaning the vast majority of sexual assault victims are unable to receive assistance through the fund.

“I have taken care of many victims of sexual assault,” said Lauria, who works as a nurse practitioner. “There are many reasons that victims choose not to press charges. That does not make them any less a victim. They endure so much, including expenses that the Crime Victim Compensation Fund is meant to cover. This bill gives them another avenue to qualify for help through the fund.”

Under another law enacted by the General Assembly this year, the fund can now provide up to $1,000 in financial assistance to help victims improve security in their homes. That bill (2024-H 7747B, 2024-S 2777A) sponsored by Rep. Justine A. Caldwell (D-Dist. 30, East Greenwich, West Greenwich) and Sen. Matthew L. LaMountain (D-Dist. 30, Warwick) on Treasurer Diossa’s behalf, could be of particular help to the same victims who would be helped by this bill, since fear of retaliation by the perpetrator is a common reason that victims decline to pursue criminal charges.

If you or a loved one has been a victim of violent crime in Rhode Island and you need assistance, the Crime Victim Compensation Program may be able to help. More information about the program can be found at RICVCP.com or by calling (401) 462-7655.

The Henries bill specifies the requirements and procedures for licensing lactation counselors.

“Lactation issues can arise at anytime after birth and it is vital that families experiencing these problems receive the care that they need from a knowledgeable and licensed individual. This bill will protect the health and safety of the baby and parents, which is only thing that matters,” said Henries.

The legislation (2024-S 2379A, 2024-H 7882A) defines a lactation counselor as an individual who holds current certification from the Academy of Lactation Policy and Practice as a certified lactation counselor (CLC) or an advanced lactation consultant (ALC) after demonstrating appropriate education and competency and passing a criterion-referenced examination. The bills outline the qualifications and requirements needed to be a licensed lactation counselor in Rhode Island, as well as the processes for license application and renewal.

Britto tax bill passes
The Assembly passed a bill sponsored by Sen. Robert Britto (D-Dist. 18, East Providence, Pawtucket) that would allow municipalities, upon request by the taxpayer, to issue tax bills digitally or electronically.

“Although many residents still prefer a hard copy of their tax bill sent through the mail, others, especially younger residents, may not. This legislation will ensure that tax bills are sent to residents accurately and securely in a way that works best for the taxpayers,” said Senator Britto .

The legislation (2024-H 7110, 2024-S 2639) would allow municipal tax collectors to establish programs so that a taxpayer can waive their right to receive notice of the amount of tax owed via mail in lieu of notice via email or through some other digital or electronic means.

Lawson's Irish trade bill passes
The Assembly passed a bill establishing an advisory trade commission to promote and advance the relationship between Rhode Island and Ireland (2024-S 2508, 2024-H 7777).

Said Senator Valerie Lawson (D-Dist. 14, East Providence) the lead sponsor in the upper chamber: “Rhode Island and Ireland have a long and fruitful shared history,” said “This commission will build on this history and work to improve our relationship and study ways to improve economic opportunities for both Rhode Islanders and the Irish people.”

The bill aims to make Rhode Island one of a growing number of states, of which New Jersey was the first, to establish such a commission to improve relations and develop shared economic interests with Ireland, which retains direct access to the European Union market.

Upon the exit of the United Kingdom from the bloc following a 2016 vote, known to many as "Brexit," Ireland is now the only native English-speaking country in the European Union and provides an attractive venue and gateway to the 27-country marketplace for trade purposes.

— Notes were compiled from releases issued by the Rhode Island General Assembly Legislative Press and Public Information Bureau.