Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7631

Introduced
2/11/26  

Caption

Requires the EOHHS to disregard an individual’s assets or resources, when determining an individual’s eligibility for any Medicare beneficiary program, contingent on federal approval.

Impact

If enacted, H7631 would significantly alter the eligibility criteria for Medicare beneficiary programs in Rhode Island. By disregarding assets in the eligibility determination process, it aims to broaden access to these programs for individuals who may otherwise be disqualified due to their financial resources. This change could potentially benefit a substantial number of low-income individuals who are currently unable to access necessary healthcare services simply because they possess minimal assets. The bill reflects a movement towards making healthcare more accessible to those in need, particularly among vulnerable populations.

Summary

House Bill H7631 aims to amend the current provisions related to Medicare enrollment in Rhode Island. Specifically, it requires the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) to disregard an individual's assets or resources when determining eligibility for various Medicare beneficiary programs. This includes programs like the Qualified Medicare Beneficiary and the Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary programs, which are essential for many residents who rely on these benefits for healthcare coverage. The implementation of this change is contingent on receiving the necessary federal approvals, which ensures compliance with federal regulations governing such programs.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding H7631 is the requirement for federal approval before its provisions can take effect. This condition introduces an element of uncertainty regarding the timeline for implementation as state officials must navigate the federal approval process. Additionally, there could be concerns regarding the financial implications for the state if a larger number of individuals qualify for Medicare programs without the asset test. Stakeholders may debate whether such changes will lead to increased state expenditures and how they align with existing budgetary constraints.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0693

Expands eligibility for the qualified Medicare beneficiary program by increasing the income limit from 100% to 138% of the federal poverty line.

RI H5529

Expands eligibility for the qualified Medicare beneficiary program by increasing the income limit from 100% to 138% of the federal poverty line.

RI S0696

Authorizes an increase in resource eligibility limits for persons with long-term-care needs who reside at home and requires semi-annual reports from Medicaid certified assisted living facilities and adult day service providers to the EOHHS.

RI H6074

Authorizes an increase in resource eligibility limits for persons with long-term-care needs who reside at home and requires semi-annual reports from Medicaid certified assisted living facilities and adult day service providers to the EOHHS.

RI S0333

Requires EOHHS to establish a 1-year pilot program for nutritional assistance and medically tailored meals, groceries and produce for peoples with diet-related diseases or food insecurity, and other interventions where there is a clinical need.

RI H5775

Requires EOHHS to establish a 1-year pilot program for nutritional assistance and medically tailored meals, groceries and produce for peoples with diet-related diseases or food insecurity, and other interventions where there is a clinical need.

RI H5848

Requires the DOH and the EOHHS to collaborate with community health centers to establish new programs designed to attract federal funds, with a focus on the utilization of Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education programs.

RI S0263

Requires coverage for acute mental health crisis mobile response and stabilization services to eligible individuals enrolled as plan beneficiaries.

RI H6118

Requires coverage for acute mental health crisis mobile response and stabilization services to eligible individuals enrolled as plan beneficiaries.

RI H5281

Creates the Rhode Island Childcare Assistance Program that governs both family eligibility for the state’s childcare subsidy program and expands eligibility for the program to meet the federal eligibility benchmark.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.