The bill amends Section 32-1-17 of the General Laws in Chapter 32-1, which pertains to individuals with disabilities and their exemption from fees at state-owned recreational facilities. The new legal language specifies that no fees will be charged to persons with disabilities, regardless of age, or to vehicles transporting non-drivers with disabilities, provided they present proper identification as required by the Department of Environmental Management. The definition of "person with a disability" is expanded to include individuals receiving social security disability benefits (SSDI), supplemental security income benefits (SSI), veterans benefits determined to be 100% disabled through a service-connected disability, and those determined to be disabled for Medicaid eligibility by the executive office of health and human services or its designee.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that "fees" encompass all charges for parking, admittance, or other user fees related to recreational activities, excluding certain fees such as licensing, camping, picnic table, and specialized facility use fees. The act is set to take effect upon passage, thereby enhancing accessibility for individuals with disabilities at state recreational facilities.

Statutes affected:
5079: 32-1-17