Rhode Island · 2026 Regular Session · Bill
HB 7994: AN ACT RELATING TO STATE AFFAIRS AND GOVERNMENT -- DEPARTMENT OF CHILDREN, YOUTH AND FAMILIES -- THE POWERS AND SCOPE OF ACTIVITIES
In committee Official data
- Introduced
- In committee
- Passed one chamber
- Passed both chambers
- Enacted
Last official action: ·Record last updated:
Plain-language summary
HB 7994 is a bill introduced in the Rhode Island House on February 27, 2026. According to its official title, it concerns: AN ACT RELATING TO STATE AFFAIRS AND GOVERNMENT -- DEPARTMENT OF CHILDREN, YOUTH AND FAMILIES -- THE POWERS AND SCOPE OF ACTIVITIES. Primary sponsor: Brandon Potter (Democratic), Susan Donovan (Democratic), Justine Caldwell (Democratic), Kathleen Fogarty (Democratic), Matthew Dawson (Democratic), Jennifer Stewart (Democratic), Teresa Tanzi (Democratic), Karen Alzate (Democratic), Mary Ann Shallcross-Smith (Democratic), Casimiro. Most recent recorded action (March 30, 2026): 03/30/2026 Committee recommended measure be held for further study.
Generated automatically from the official title, sponsor list, and status record only. It does not characterize the bill’s purpose or effects. How summaries are written
Official summary
Abstract published by the legislature (via Open States). Text as published by the legislature; reproduced verbatim.
Expands the DCYF powers by overseeing and administer comprehensive behavioral health services for children with serious emotional disturbances and children with developmental or functional disabilities.
Sponsors
Sponsors by party (alphabetical): Democratic 9
| Name | Role | Party | Chamber | District |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brandon Potter | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 16 |
| Susan Donovan | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 69 |
| Justine Caldwell | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 30 |
| Kathleen Fogarty | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 35 |
| Matthew Dawson | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 65 |
| Jennifer Stewart | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 59 |
| Teresa Tanzi | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 34 |
| Karen Alzate | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 60 |
| Mary Ann Shallcross-Smith | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 46 |
| Casimiro | Primary sponsor | Not applicable (committee) | — | — |
“Support” is shown only as formal sponsorship recorded by the legislature. Roll-call votes are available on the official bill page.
Recent official actions
- 03/30/2026 Committee recommended measure be held for further study
- 03/26/2026 Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration (03/30/2026)
- 03/04/2026 Committee transferred to House Health & Human Services
- 02/27/2026 Introduced, referred to House State Government & Elections