Primary Care Access: Rhode Island’s Office of the Health Insurance Commissioner released a baseline report showing fewer residents have a personal doctor for non-urgent needs than a decade ago, as the state looks for ways to improve primary care payment and access. Workplace Health Protections: Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson signed an executive order pushing state agencies to standardize workplace accommodations for employees dealing with perimenopause and menopause, aiming to reduce lost talent and improve support. Menstrual Leave Push: Democrats advanced a federal paid leave proposal for reproductive health needs, framing lack of coverage as “economic violence” and calling for up to 12 days of paid leave annually. Food Security Funding: Centreville Bank Charitable Foundation awarded $562,000 in grants, including support for emergency meal delivery for homebound seniors after the 2026 winter storm. Tick Season Warning: CDC data show ER visits for tick bites are at their highest for this time of year since 2017, with warmer conditions driving more activity in the Northeast and Midwest. RI Budget Watch: Rhode Island’s FY27 budget proposal would increase spending by about $523 million, with 45% going to healthcare and human services. Grocery Checkout Policy: Rhode Island Senate-approved legislation would require one staffed checkout lane for every three self-checkout lanes, setting up a House debate. Courts & Child Safety: The Rhode Island Senate is set to consider a bill creating a “revival window” for expired civil claims tied to institutional child sexual abuse.