Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7940

Introduced
2/27/26  

Caption

Amends unfair discrimination statutes to encompass more protected categories and protect against additional forms of discrimination.

Impact

If passed, H7940 is expected to have significant implications for healthcare law in the state. It would create more robust protections against unfair treatment in insurance policies, thereby promoting equitable access to health services for all individuals, particularly those in protected classes. This includes ensuring that individuals seeking gender-affirming care or reproductive health services are not discriminated against. The bill mandates that any reimbursement for healthcare services be based solely on medical necessity, negating the influence of unlawful bias or discrimination.

Summary

House Bill H7940 seeks to amend existing unfair discrimination statutes to include additional protected categories and forms of discrimination within the realm of healthcare. The bill comprehensively outlines the prohibited practices that healthcare entities may not engage in regarding health-benefit plans. This includes the denial of coverage or discriminatory practices based on various characteristics such as race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, and disability, amongst others. By broadening the scope of protection, the bill aims to address the specific needs of marginalized groups in accessing healthcare services.

Contention

The passage of H7940 may not come without controversy. Supporters view the bill as a necessary step toward equity and inclusion in healthcare, whereas some opponents may argue that rights of healthcare entities to maintain certain standards may be compromised. The bill's emphasis on protecting against discrimination, particularly regarding gender transition and other healthcare services, could elicit polarized feedback from various stakeholders, including healthcare providers and advocacy groups.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H6368

Amends unfair discrimination statutes to encompass more protected categories and protects against additional forms of discrimination.

RI S0887

Protects against discrimination based on disability in federally funded programs and activities, even if there is a change in the federal law.

RI H6122

Protects against discrimination based on disability in federally funded programs and activities, even if there is a change in the federal law.

RI S0237

Provides protections for students and parents against discrimination on the basis of a religious viewpoint or religious expression in schools. Allows students to pray or engage in religious activities before, during or after school.

RI S0519

Prohibits discrimination on the basis of race by expanding the definition of race to include traits historically associated with race, including, but not limited to, hair texture and protected hairstyles.

RI H5841

Prohibits discrimination on the basis of race by expanding the definition of race to include traits historically associated with race, including, but not limited to, hair texture and protected hairstyles.

RI S0114

Prohibits any health insurer, pharmacy benefit manager, manufacturer or other third-party payor from discriminating against any 340B entity participating in a drug discount program.

RI H5634

Prohibits any health insurer, pharmacy benefit manager, manufacturer or other third-party payor from discriminating against any 340B entity participating in a drug discount program.

RI S0469

Requires written consent by recipient or parent before vaccine and prohibits discrimination against those who don't vaccinate and fines up to $25,000 for violation. Also prohibits DCYF from investigating their for failure to vaccinate their child.

RI H5455

Defines "anti-Semitism" for the state human affairs commission to use while investigating and working to resolve complaints of discrimination and for the commission against prejudice and bias to use in defining hate crimes.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.