The bill amends Section 42-11-13 of the General Laws in Chapter 42-11, creating the "Rhode Island organ transplant fund" to assist residents and their families with expenses related to organ transplants. The fund will be administered by the Department of Human Services and will consist of revenues from a newly referenced section, § 44-30-2.5, as well as gifts and donations. Disbursements from the fund will cover non-reimbursed costs associated with organ transplants, including medical care, prescribed drugs, and out-of-state living expenses for a limited duration. Notably, disbursements will only occur once the fund's principal reaches $15,000, and applications for disbursement will not be accepted until that threshold is met.

Additionally, the bill specifies that disbursements from the fund are not entitlement programs and that the fund cannot incur a deficit. It also allows for disbursements to help organ transplant recipients meet their spend-down requirements for Medicaid, provided certain income limits are adhered to. The director of the Department of Human Services is tasked with establishing rules and regulations for the fund's operation, in consultation with the general treasurer. The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5388: 42-11-13