Daniel J. McKee, D- Rhode Island, issued the following news release:. Governor Dan McKee, joined by House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi, Senate President Dominick J. Ruggerio, Senate Majority Whip Maryellen Goodwin and House Deputy Majority Whip Mia A. Ackerman, today signed into law the Maryellen Goodwin Colorectal Cancer Screening Act which provides full insurance.
Governor Dan McKee, joined by House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi, Senate President Dominick J. Ruggerio, Senate Majority Whip Maryellen Goodwin and House Deputy Majority Whip Mia A. Ackerman, today signed into law the Maryellen Goodwin Colorectal Cancer Screening Act (S-383A, H-5432A) which provides full insurance coverage for colorectal cancer screenings. The bill-signing took place at Miriam Hospital where Majority Whip Goodwin is currently undergoing treatment for colon cancer.
“Expanding access to colorectal cancer screenings will save lives,” said Governor McKee. “I am proud to sign this bill into law, removing barriers many Rhode Islanders face in accessing crucial screenings. I thank Senate Majority Whip Goodwin, House Deputy Majority Whip Ackerman and all the inspiring advocates who championed this effort and worked tirelessly to ensure this bill becomes law.”
Shekarchi unveils package of affordable housing legislation
R.I. HOUSE SPEAKER K. Joseph Shekarchi on Monday announced a package of legislation to support creating more affordable housing in the state. / COURTESY GENERAL ASSEMBLY
PROVIDENCE – House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi on Monday unveiled a package of seven pieces of legislation aimed at making housing more available and affordable in the state.
The Warwick Democrat said housing is “a critical challenge,” and also urged Rhode Island voters to approve Question 3 in Tuesday’s statewide special referenda election to authorize $65 million in bonds for affordable housing development.
“Long before the COVID-19 pandemic reached us, Rhode Island was facing a profound housing crisis,” said Shekarchi. “Our housing is not affordable, in short supply, and our stock is aging and often not in safe, livable condition. Rents are out of reach for average-income families, and those making less than that face enormous challen