RI lawmakers win long-sought changes in way House operates PROVIDENCE — Lawmakers clamoring for some major changes in the way the Rhode Island House of Representatives operates got much of what they've been seeking on Thursday. In a series of House votes, the lawmakers approved the bulk of the proposed changes on a 60-to-7 vote and the single most controversial new rule — giving the House Speaker exclusive power over reprimand, censure and expulsion — on a 48-to-19 vote. Among the changes: Remote meetings and voting during the current pandemic, and any other public emergency. Discretion to order lawmakers to follow public-health guidance, such as mask-wearing. The ability to make state government officials swear to tell the truth.