The bill amends Section 32-1-17 of the General Laws in Chapter 32-1, which pertains to general provisions regarding persons with disabilities. It establishes that no fees will be charged to individuals with disabilities, regardless of age, or to vehicles transporting a non-driver with a disability at state-owned recreational facilities, provided they present proper identification as required by the Department of Environmental Management.

The definition of a person with a disability is expanded to include individuals receiving social security disability benefits (SSDI), receiving supplemental security income benefits (SSI), receiving veterans benefits for those determined to be disabled through a service-connected disability, and those determined to be disabled for purposes of Medicaid eligibility by the executive office of health and human services or its designee.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that the term "fees" encompasses all fees related to parking, admittance, or other user fees for activities such as golfing, but excludes licensing fees, camping fees, picnic table fees, and specialized facility use fees. This act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5079: 32-1-17