Tag Archives for Rhode Island General Assembly

Rhode Island Leads Nation with First Ever U.S. Menopause Workplace Protections

Published in Blackstone Valley Call & Times on July 1, 2025

In 2012, Rhode Island became the first state to pass a Homeless Bill of Rights. Three years later, it led again by banning the use of bullhooks on elephants. In 2021, the state once more broke ground by establishing legally sanctioned, medically staffed drug injection facilities to combat overdose deaths. As the General Assembly concludes its 2025 session, lawmakers mark yet another national first—enacting workplace protections for women experiencing menopause.

Most women begin the menopause transition in their 40s or 50s, with symptoms typically lasting between three and seven years. During this time, they may experience hot flashes, insomnia, night sweats, migraines, heart palpitations, anxiety, panic attacks, brain fog, and other debilitating symptoms caused by declining estrogen. 

Many are unprepared for the onset and lack sufficient support or guidance—particularly when it comes to managing symptoms in the workplace.

Governor Dan McKee has signed into law legislation (S 0361), introduced by Sen. Lori Urso (D-Dist. 8, Pawtucket), to support women experiencing menopause under the state’s fair employment statute—making Rhode Island the first state to explicitly enact such workplace protections. A companion bill (H 6161) was introduced by Rep. Karen Alzate (D-Dist. 60, Pawtucket, Central Falls) and passed by concurrence.

Rhode Island law already prohibits workplace discrimination related to pregnancy, childbirth, and associated conditions. This includes requiring employers to provide reasonable accommodations and protecting individuals from being denied employment opportunities or promotions—or from being terminated—due to these conditions. The new law adds menopause to this list of protected health conditions.

“Menopause is a difficult and personal subject that has been stigmatized in this country,” said Sen. Urso in a statement announcing the bill’s passage. “But as something that affects half our population, it’s time we recognize it as a workforce issue—especially as our workforce ages along with our population. The current lack of protections contributes to inadequate retirement savings and lost leadership opportunities for women and poses an economic challenge for employers facing workforce shortages and the loss of experienced employees,” she says.

“Menopause is not something women choose to experience, and its effects on the mind and body can significantly impact daily life and job performance,” said Rep. Alzate. “Women should not have to risk being penalized or discriminated against at work due to a naturally occurring biological transition.”

“Women’s health care is a vital component of a healthy workplace,” said Patrick Crowley, president of the Rhode Island AFL-CIO. “That’s why it’s essential to extend the fair employment practices law to include menopause-related conditions. All workers deserve to be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their health status.”

Madalyn McGunagle, policy associate at the Rhode Island ACLU, added, “Menopause is a natural and common phase of life, yet its symptoms can have profound and lasting impacts. By extending legal protections, we ensure women are afforded the accommodations they need to continue working effectively.”

Growing Recognition of Menopause in the Workplace

According to Urso, Rhode Island is home to 917,000 working-age residents. Of these, 13% are between the ages of 45 and 54, and 16.5% are between 55 and 65. The state has a higher percentage of older workers compared to the national average, with women representing 45% of workers aged 55 and older. Based on this data, it is estimated that there are 64,000 women between the ages of 45 and 54, and 35,000 women aged 55 to 59.

Urso further estimates that nearly 100,000 women in the state may experience menopausal symptoms at any given time, accounting for more than 10% of Rhode Island’s entire working-age population.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 75% of women in the U.S. labor force are working during their menopause transition years, making workplace engagement around women’s health issues vital.

“Addressing menopause in employment practices is critical because it affects employee well-being, retention, and productivity,” said Angela Lima, policy and advocacy program director at the Women’s Fund of Rhode Island. “These changes benefit both workers and employers.”

A Mayo Clinic study estimated that menopause symptoms cost U.S. businesses $1.8 billion in lost productivity annually. The study’s coauthors urged employers to update workplace policies to better support their female employees.

In Sept. 2024, Bloomberg news tackled the issue of menopause, putting the spotlight on millennial women.  The findings indicate that 70% of these individuals would consider either reducing their hours, changing jobs, or retiring early due to their symptoms.

Urso noted that this study also found that 61% expressed concerns about dealing with menopause while working, and a third worried it would damage their career  growth.  “If this is indeed the case, employers will lose more in the long-run if they’re losing leadership and trying to rehire in those situations,” she says.

And in Jan. 2024, January, the Society for Women’s Health Research released findings from its Employee Perspective and Challenges Concerning the Transition of Menopause (EMPACT Menopause) Study. The goal was to better understand the workplace experiences of those who have gone through menopause, as well as their colleagues and supervisors.

Key findings from the EMPACT study include:

  • 59% of women felt uncomfortable requesting accommodations.
  • Only 31% felt comfortable discussing menopause at work.
  • 2 in 5 women considered leaving or did leave their jobs due to symptoms.
  • 1 in 6 supervisors expressed discomfort providing accommodations.
  • While half of supervisors had spoken with employees about menopause, 14% had not but wanted to.

Bringing Menopause Out of the Closet

In her article “It’s Time to Address Menopause at Work,” Claire Hastwell, content program manager at Great Place to Work, calls for employers to support women with menopausal symptoms. She notes this can improve employee well-being, retention, and business outcomes.

“But women who grapple with menopause rarely find workplace support, official company guidelines, or a sympathetic ear,” she writes. “Employees experiencing menopause need to know their employer has their back. Without support, businesses risk losing some of their most senior and skilled workers.”

Supporting menopausal women in the workplace can enhance retention and engagement, boost productivity, reduce health risks, and improve morale, Hastwell adds.

It’s time to stop sweeping menopause under the carpet. Rhode Island’s new law creates a menopause-friendly workplace—and offers a model for other states to follow.

For a copy of the EMPACT Menopause Study, visit:
http://swhr.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/FINAL-Menopause-Workplace-Fact-Sheet-02012024.pdf

To read more on creating supportive workplaces, visit:
https://www.greatplacetowork.com/resources/blog/support-menopausal-women-workplace

Lawmakers consider bill to combat fraud at crypto kiosks

Published in RINewsToday on April 7, 2025

Maybe the second time will be the charm. After the Rhode Island General Assembly failed to address the issue of preventing criminals from using cryptocurrency (Crypto) ATMs to steal from older Rhode Islanders, AARP Rhode Island is renewing its effort to regulate the state’s 120 crypto kiosks and safeguard older residents.

More than 45,000 crypto kiosks, which resemble bank ATMs, allow users to conduct legitimate cryptocurrency transactions, such as sending money to digital wallets. However, unlike banks and other financial services, these kiosks in Rhode Island are not regulated and lack critical fraud protections.

In 2023, the FBI received over 5,500 complaints involving crypto kiosks, with older adults disproportionately affected by scams. In Rhode Island alone, victims lost $10 million to cryptocurrency scams. The Rhode Island State Police also reported a rise in cryptocurrency ATM scams, with 40 cases reported in 2024 and already 21 cases in early 2025.

With fraud spreading through supermarkets, convenience stores, and gas stations, the Washington, D.C. based AARP is working with 17 of its state affiliates, including Rhode Island, to draft and pass bills incorporating daily transaction limits, state operator licensing requirements, scam warnings, and refund options for fraud victims.

Fighting Fraud and Exploitation

Introduced on Jan. 22, 2025, HB 5121, introduced by Rep. Julie Casimiro (D-Dist. 31, North Kingstown, Exeter), aims to license cryptocurrency kiosk operators and mandate the posting of fraud warnings. It also requires Kiosks to display terms and conditions before transactions, including any fees charged and exchange rates. Additionally, it would set fee caps at either $5 or 3% per transaction, and mandate paper receipts containing relevant transactional information.  The bill was referred to the House Committee on Innovation & Technology.

The bill would also require crypto operators to refund transactions and ATM fees in cases of fraud, and impose daily transaction limits to mitigate high-risk  transactions.

On Feb. 11, 2025, the House Committee on Innovation & Technology held its hearing to discuss HB 5121. Supporters and critics testified on its merit.

Written Testimony Highlights


Catherine Taylor, AARP Rhode Island’s State Director, urged lawmakers to pass HB 5121, citing the growing issue of crypto fraud. She referenced Federal Trade Commission (FTC) data showing that, in 2022, the actual amount stolen through fraud was likely closer to $137.4 billion – far exceeding the report $9 billion.

Matthew Netto, AARP Associate State Director, also submitted written testimony, citing a 2023 case where the founders of the Bitcoin of America ATM network were arrested for money laundering and conspiracy (in Ohio), with a focus on defrauding elderly victims. He emphasized that while cryptocurrency is a legitimate form of currency, gaining in popularity, it has become an increasingly attractive tool for criminals. He called on lawmakers to protect older Rhode Islanders, stating that the point of transfer is the best place to deter crime.

Attorney General Peter F. Neronha echoed these concerns, noting the difficulties of navigating the volatile crypto market.  Rhode Island’s top law enforcement officer urged lawmakers to adopt regulations for the operation of crypto kiosks and requiring disclosure of all material risks prior to virtual currency transactions.

Larry Lipka, General Counsel for Coinflip, a global digital currency platform company, expressed cautious support for HB 5121, stating his company supports most provision, some elements – such as the fee cap and physical receipt requirement – could inadvertently encourage less transparency and compliance efforts that help protect consumers. He also raised concern about the bill’s transaction limits, which could undermine anti-money laundering efforts.

Ethan McClelland, Bitcoin Depot’s Director of Government Relations also expressed support for the bill but warned that certain provisions, particularly daily transaction limits and the fee cap, would make it difficult for operators to continue operating in Rhode Island. The company is the largest operator of cryptocurrency kiosks in the United States.

Sen. Victoria Gu (D-Dist. 38, Westerly, Charlestown, South Kingston), introduced, SB 16, the Senate companion measure.  After a March 18, 2025 hearing before the Senate Commerce Commit the legislative proposal was held for further study.


The Art of Compromise
Following concerns raised during the hearings, the House committee recommended further study of HB 5121. Subsequently, AARP Rhode Island met with Rep. Julie Casimiro, the sponsor of HB 5121, and crypto industry representatives, leading to compromises that satisfied both regulatory advocates and the crypto ATM industry.

As a result of this compromise, the revised version of  HB 5121 was passed on March 27, 2025, by a vote of 10-0.  HB 5121 Sub. A sets daily transaction limits of $2,000 for new customers and $5,000 for existing customers, aligning with regulations in Connecticut.  The fee cap provisions were removed, and physical receipt requirements will take effect in Nov. 2025, while other provisions become law upon passage.

The initial bill required operators to provide full refunds to new customers. In the revised version, new customers must request a full refund within 30 days if they claim fraudulent inducement.

Looking Ahead

The House is expected to vote on HB 5121 Substitute A on Thursday, April 10, 2025. If it passes the Senate must act. With three months left in the 2025 legislative session, an amended version of SB has yet to be introduced.  However, there is ample time for the Senate to amend SB 16 to align with the House version.  Once both chambers pass identical bills, they must be signed by Governor Dan McKee to become law.

If the crypto regulation bill does not pass the Rhode Island General Assembly this year, lawmakers may try again next year.  Will the third time be the charm?

Attorney General Peter Neronha, General Treasurer James Diossa, Senior Agenda Coalition of RI, Westerly Police Department, the Village Common of Rhode Island, Rhode Island Coalition of Elder Justice, Rhode Island State Police and dozens of older Rhode Islanders join the AARP in supporting HB 5121 Sub. A and SB 16.

To watch the House Committee on Innovation & Technology’s  Feb. 11 hearing (HB 5121), go to https://capitoltvri.cablecast.tv/show/10801?site=1. Or its March 27 hearing, go to https://capitoltvri.cablecast.tv/show/11030?site=1.

To watch the Senate Commerce Committees March 18 hearing (SB 16), go to https://capitoltvri.cablecast.tv/show/10973?site=1

AARP provides tips and resources on how you can protect yourself against cryptocurrency ATM scams, go to  https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/crypto-atm/.

Costa takes helm of SACRI, Crafts Vision for Upcoming Conference

Published in RINewsToday on September 9, 2024

The Senior Agenda Coalition of Rhode Island (SACRI), an independent and diverse coalition of over 20 agencies and individual members who advocate for older Rhode Islanders, gears up for the planning of its 16th Annual Conference and Expo with the recent appointment of its new Executive Director, Carol Anne Costa.

Bringing a Wealth of Experience to SACRI

According to Diane Santos, SACRI Board  Chair, Costa brings a wealth of experience from her positions in the Raimondo administration and most recently as the Constituent Service Coordinator for the Rhode Island Office of Attorney General. Her institutional knowledge at the state and federal levels gained in her past positions in the Rhode Island Judiciary, as well as Executive Director of National Utility Contractors of RI (NUCARI) and her managerial role at the Johnston Housing Authority, is a great asset.

“Most importantly, Carol is passionate about helping others, not only through her work but also through her volunteerism in the community. This commitment is exemplified by her serving on many Boards and committees, most notably as a member of the Board of Directors of Wiggin Village for the past 20 years,” says Santos.

The conference will bring together important voices: people from across the state together with the politicians who serve their interests at the levers of power, says Costa. “To achieve progress on any issue the participation of decision makers along with those they represent is the best way to meet budget, legislative and policy goals,” notes Costa.

SACRI Conference is Just a Month Away

In July, Costa stepped into the role of managing SACRI’s upcoming annual conference, “A Bridge to a Secure Future,” to be held on October 9, 2024, from 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon, at the Warwick-based Crown Plaza.  This major task remains on her desk as do many of the other tasks to move the organization forward to prepare for the upcoming General Assembly session.

We must embrace the future and respect the past,” says Costa, in developing strategies to advocate for legislative proposals that enhance the lives older persons.

 “My goal is to fill the ballroom at the Crowne Plaza to capacity with older Rhode Islanders, aging advocates, partners and coalition members to educate them about legislative proposals that SACRI supports during next year’s legislative session.

According to Costa, the conference theme, “A Bridge to a Secure Future,” focuses on the kitchen table issues facing older adults and adults with disabilities: economic security, healthcare, and housing. Presenting the keynote address is US Senator Sheldon Whitehouse who will be followed by a panel including US Congressman Seth Magaziner, RI Attorney General Peter F. Neronha and Housing expert, Julie Leddy, she says.

“The conference will be informative and opportune.” said Costa, noting that SACRI’s mission is helping to better the lives of older Rhode Islanders and adults with disabilities and the conference helps us to expand our outreach into the community.

“Empowering people by giving their voice to pertinent issues is something I value, and this conference is the perfect way to begin my tenure at the helm,” she continued.

“In Rhode Island, the healthcare system is under great stress. Older Rhode Islanders face a system rife with worker shortages, long wait times and a dwindling pool of doctors. Solving these problems requires the voices of our coalition and its partners to bring attention to them and the impact they have on people,” said Costa.

In speaking about housing issues, Costa noted, “The housing situation in the state is at a crisis point where new stock is virtually nonexistent and underfunded agencies tasked with building, managing, and easing rental spikes are the only bulwark to help ordinary folks.”

But the big question which looms is will the monies allocated for new development be proportionally distributed, particularly for our older adults as threats to Medicare and Social Security at the federal level compound the stress they feel?” asks Costa.

“This advocacy work is in my DNA, and I am enjoying every minute of it,” says Costa, stressing that she looks forward to moving SACRI forward to accomplish its legislative and policy goals that will impact Rhode Island’s older population.

“And I would be remiss if I did not ask everyone to join us on October 9, 2024,” she said.

Building on Last Year’s  Success

Looking back, over 300 people attended last year’s conference, says Maureen Maigret, SACRI’s Policy Advisor, who assisted its Board members to organize the 2023 conference.  After educating the attendees, the coalition mobilized its troops composed of older Rhode Islander, aging and health care organizations, educators, unions, and Medicare insurance providers to push for change. “

How did that conference impact SACRI’s lobbying efforts?

“Last year’s legislative agenda reflected policy issues discussed by the keynote speaker and panelists at the conference,” noted Maigret, a former Director of the State’s Office on Aging.   According to Maigret, SACRI’s lobbying efforts resulted in the General Assembly enacting SACRI’s legislative priorities that included increasing home and community service provider rates, increasing funding for the state’s senior centers and the streamlining of zoning requirements for the building of Accessory Dwelling Units.  Lawmakers also put a $120 million housing bond program on the November ballot, she said.

“Feedback from Conference attendees about the presentations was excellent and they liked the variety of exhibitors, too,” says Maigret, noting that some participants did say they would have liked more time to ask questions to the presenters. This year’s conference does build in additional time for Q&A, she adds. 

Maigret says SACRI’s Board took charge in organizing the successful event.  This year, Costa and her Board continue its efforts to organize and prepare for the upcoming legislative session, she says.

The cost of SACRI’s upcoming conference is $25.00 per person for Members and $35 per person for nonmembers.  And any organization who wishes to exhibit their work at the Expo, the tables are $350.00. To register go to  https://senioragendari.org/2024-conference-and-expo.

For more details about SACRI, to https://senioragendari.org/.