The proposed legislation establishes the Rhode Island Comprehensive Health Insurance Program (RICHIP), a universal, comprehensive, and affordable single-payer healthcare insurance program aimed at providing health insurance to all residents of Rhode Island. The bill emphasizes that healthcare is a human right and seeks to address the shortcomings of the current multi-payer system, which has resulted in a significant number of residents being uninsured or underinsured.

RICHIP will be funded by consolidating existing government and private payments into a more efficient system, replacing high premiums, co-pays, deductibles, and costs in excess of caps with lower progressive taxes. The program will be administered by an independent state government agency, with a director appointed by the governor and a board composed of nine members to oversee the program's operations, benefits, and budget proposals.

The legislation includes provisions for the establishment of eligibility and enrollment processes for RICHIP participants, as well as procedures for disenrollment and disqualification. It mandates the creation of a comprehensive healthcare database for planning and quality assurance, and outlines the responsibilities of the director and the board in managing the program.

Additionally, the bill introduces significant amendments to existing healthcare laws, including changes to Medicaid eligibility and reimbursement methodologies. It establishes that RICHIP will serve as the state's sole Medicaid provider if necessary federal waivers are obtained. The program will also provide coverage for Medicare-eligible residents and will serve as a secondary or supplemental plan for military veterans.

The legislation includes provisions for expanding coverage to noncitizen family members, enhancing access to mental health services, and establishing a consumer advisory council to address health insurance issues. It aims to improve healthcare access, quality of care, and the financial sustainability of the state's healthcare system while ensuring that the standard of care funded by Medicaid is raised to a Medicare standard.

The act will take effect upon passage, but the RICHIP program will not commence until the necessary waivers are obtained and the final financing proposal is approved by the General Assembly.

Statutes affected:
5465: 27-34.3-7, 27-66-24, 28-57-5, 40-8.4-13, 42-12.3-14, 44-17-1, 44-51-3