Rhode Island · 2026 Regular Session · Bill
SB 2978: AN ACT RELATING TO BEHAVIORAL HEALTHCARE, DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AND HOSPITALS -- MENTAL HEALTH LAW
Enacted Official data
- Introduced
- In committee
- Passed one chamber
- Passed both chambers
- Enacted
Last official action: ·Record last updated:
Plain-language summary
SB 2978 is a bill introduced in the Rhode Island Senate on March 4, 2026. According to its official title, it concerns: AN ACT RELATING TO BEHAVIORAL HEALTHCARE, DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AND HOSPITALS -- MENTAL HEALTH LAW. Primary sponsor: Melissa Murray (Democratic), Lou DiPalma (Democratic), Matt LaMountain (Democratic), Lammis Vargas (Democratic), Ryan Pearson (Democratic), Lori Urso (Democratic), Walter Felag (Democratic), Alana DiMario (Democratic), Pam Lauria (Democratic). Most recent recorded action (June 19, 2026): 06/19/2026 Signed by Governor.
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.
Provides that advanced practice registered nurses have the same immunity from liability as physicians and surgeons.
Sponsors
Sponsors by party (alphabetical): Democratic 9
| Name | Role | Party | Chamber | District |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Melissa Murray | Primary sponsor | Democratic | Senate | 24 |
| Lou DiPalma | Primary sponsor | Democratic | Senate | 12 |
| Matt LaMountain | Primary sponsor | Democratic | Senate | 31 |
| Lammis Vargas | Primary sponsor | Democratic | Senate | 28 |
| Ryan Pearson | Primary sponsor | Democratic | Senate | 19 |
| Lori Urso | Primary sponsor | Democratic | Senate | 8 |
| Walter Felag | Primary sponsor | Democratic | Senate | 10 |
| Alana DiMario | Primary sponsor | Democratic | Senate | 36 |
| Pam Lauria | Primary sponsor | Democratic | Senate | 32 |
“Support” is shown only as formal sponsorship recorded by the legislature. Roll-call votes are available on the official bill page.
Recent official actions
- 06/19/2026 Signed by Governor
- 06/16/2026 Transmitted to Governor
- 06/08/2026 House passed in concurrence
- 06/05/2026 Placed on the House Consent Calendar (06/08/2026)
- 06/03/2026 Senate read and passed
- 05/29/2026 Placed on Senate Calendar (06/03/2026)
- 05/28/2026 Committee recommends passage
- 05/26/2026 Scheduled for consideration (05/28/2026)
- 05/07/2026 Committee recommended measure be held for further study
- 05/01/2026 Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration (05/07/2026)
- 03/04/2026 Introduced, referred to Senate Judiciary