Rhode Island House Bill H7400

Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/28/26
• Refer: 1/28/26

Caption

JOINT RESOLUTION MAKING AN APPROPRIATION OF THE SUM OF $118,422 TO THE RHODE ISLAND PARENT INFORMATION NETWORK TO CONTINUE THE OPERATION OF THE RIPIN DUAL OBUDSMAN PROGRAM (Authorizes the appropriation of the sum of $118,422 to the Rhode Island Parent Information Network to support Rhode Island’s Medicare-Medicaid Dual Ombudsman Program.)

Impact

The bill responds to a critical need for advocacy and guidance as Rhode Island's healthcare landscape evolves, with significant changes expected for duals due to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) withdrawing support for existing plans and introducing new regulatory frameworks. Without dedicated support from the RIPIN Dual Ombudsman, stakeholders fear that duals will face increased confusion and barriers in accessing necessary care during these transitions. Funded through a mix of state and federal sources, this appropriation would ensure that the program continues to operate at its current capacity, helping to mitigate potential adverse impacts on Rhode Island's dual-eligible population.

Summary

House Bill H7400 aims to authorize an appropriation of $118,422 to the Rhode Island Parent Information Network (RIPIN) to sustain the operation of the RIPIN Dual Ombudsman Program. This program is crucial for assisting dual-eligible enrollees—those eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid—by providing guidance through the complex landscape of healthcare services and support systems available to them. The bill emphasizes the need for continuous support as transitions in healthcare plans can significantly impact this vulnerable population's access to essential medical services.

Contention

Notably, the Governor's proposed budget for fiscal year 2027 included cuts that would eliminate funding for the RIPIN Dual Ombudsman Program, which raised concerns among advocates for duals who view this service as indispensable. The program has historically helped clients save significant healthcare costs and navigate the complexities of multiple benefit programs. The continuation of this funding is seen not only as a matter of fiscal responsibility but also as a reflection of the state's commitment to supporting some of its most medically fragile residents. Critics may point to funding concerns amidst broader budgetary strains as a reason for opposition to this appropriation.