Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H8184

Introduced
2/27/26  

Caption

Prohibits the state from seeking reimbursement for expenditures made on behalf of disabled Rhode Islanders from an ABLE account after the death of the designated beneficiary.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would directly affect the application and interpretation of laws related to disability support services administered by the Rhode Island Office of Health and Human Services. By preventing the state from claiming portions of ABLE accounts for reimbursement purposes posthumously, it strengthens the financial stability of disabled individuals and their families. This change is intended to enhance the protection of vulnerable populations, ensuring that the funds meant for their support are not diverted to settle any outstanding state claims.

Summary

House Bill H8184 aims to amend the laws concerning the management of ABLE accounts, specifically in relation to the state's ability to seek reimbursement for expenditures made on behalf of disabled Rhode Islanders after the death of the account's designated beneficiary. The bill's primary function is to protect the assets within ABLE accounts from being used to settle state debts, thereby ensuring that the funds remain accessible to the beneficiaries' family members or heirs. This move is particularly significant for disabled residents, as it provides a layer of financial security against potential state claims once the account holder has passed away.

Contention

While proponents of HB H8184 argue that this is a critical step towards protecting the rights and financial well-being of disabled residents in Rhode Island, there may be points of contention regarding the potential financial implications for the state. Critics might assert that the bill could limit the state's ability to recover costs incurred for providing services to disabled individuals. Thus, balancing the needs of the disabled community with the state's financial responsibilities may become a focal point in discussions surrounding this legislation.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5973

Prohibits the state from seeking reimbursement for expenditures made on behalf of disabled Rhode Islanders from an ABLE account after death of the designated beneficiary.

RI S0731

Prohibits the state from seeking reimbursement for expenditures made on behalf of disabled Rhode Islanders from an ABLE account after death of the designated beneficiary.

RI S0332

Exempts individual retirement accounts as a countable resource for public assistance. This act also prohibits the state as a creditor against an ABLE account in the event of death of a beneficiary.

RI H5332

Establishes the Rhode Island Special Deposits Act to be governed by an account agreement between the bank and the depositor or its beneficiary.

RI S0384

Establishes the Rhode Island Special Deposits Act to be governed by an account agreement between the bank and the depositor or its beneficiary.

RI S0141

Allows an owner or owners of real property to execute a deed that names one or more beneficiaries who will obtain title to the property at the owner's death without the necessity of probate.

RI H6119

Adds to the powers and duties of the OHIC the undertaking of analyses, reports, studies, and recommendations with respect to reimbursement and financing for the provision of primary care services to Rhode Islanders.

RI S0210

Allows on and after September 1, 2025, an owner of motor vehicle(s) to transfer ownership and registration of said vehicle on their death, by a certificate of title designation and requires DMV to amend title forms, to include transfer-on-death language.

RI H5660

Allows on and after September 1, 2025, an owner of motor vehicle(s) to transfer ownership and registration of said vehicle on their death, by a certificate of title designation and requires DMV to amend title forms, to include transfer-on-death language.

RI S0653

Requires any remaining funds in the enacted budget from the Rhode Island Promise Scholarship program or the Rhode Island Hope Scholarship program to be reimbursed to the onward we learn for any scholarships paid on behalf of Rhode Island College students.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.