Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7146

Introduced
1/16/26  

Caption

RELATING TO LABOR AND LABOR RELATIONS -- DIVISION OF PROFESSIONAL, REGULATION

Impact

The introduction of the retirement status license is expected to have a beneficial impact on retired professionals by allowing them to preserve their credentials without the pressure of ongoing requirements associated with active licensing. The statute stipulates that those holding a retirement status license cannot practice their trade but can reinstate their original license by meeting certain continuing education requirements. This new provision could alleviate financial burdens related to license maintenance for older professionals while encouraging continued engagement in their respective fields in a non-practicing capacity.

Summary

House Bill 7146 aims to create a new class of retirement status license for individuals who are 65 years of age or older and currently hold a professional license regulated by the Division of Professional Regulation. This legislation is significant as it formalizes a mechanism for retired professionals to maintain a connection to their licensed profession without actively engaging in practice. The bill requires that applicants submit their original license along with a request form stating their retired status, and the issued license will be stamped to indicate its retirement status.

Contention

There may be potential contention around how this new license class could intersect with existing labor regulations and the professional standards governing active practitioners. Stakeholders could raise questions about the implications of allowing retired individuals to hold on to a professional designation without active engagement, particularly regarding public safety or professional accountability. Moreover, some may argue whether the fee structure for the retirement status license is sufficient to cover administrative costs while being fair for retirees.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H6259

HOUSE RESOLUTION PROCLAIMING APRIL 20-26 OF 2025 TO BE "MEDICAL LABORATORY PROFESSIONALS WEEK" IN THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

RI H5763

Allows any retired member of the state retirement system to serve as a member of the state labor relations board.

RI S0414

Permits paid members on the state labor relations board to continue to receive their retirement benefits.

RI H6229

Establishes the Rhode Island state crime laboratory within the department of attorney general.

RI S0951

Establishes the Rhode Island state crime laboratory within the department of attorney general.

RI H5188

Gives authority to the department of labor and training to enforce violations of the laws relating to corrosion prevention and mitigation work requirements. It also adds civil monetary penalties for violations of those laws.

RI S0744

Gives authority to the department of labor and training to enforce violations of the laws relating to corrosion prevention and mitigation work requirements. It also adds civil monetary penalties for violations of those laws.

RI S0309

Gives authority to the department of labor and training to enforce violations of the laws relating to corrosion prevention and mitigation work requirements. This act would also add civil monetary penalties for violations of those laws.

RI S0478

Establishes the scope of a certified professional midwife’s authority relating to prescribing medication to patients.

RI H5858

Establishes the scope of a certified professional midwife’s authority relating to prescribing medication to patients.

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