The bill amends Chapter 40-8 of the General Laws regarding "Medical Assistance" by introducing a new section, 40-8-33, which establishes a one-year pilot program for evidenced-based nutritional assistance and medically tailored meals, groceries, and produce prescriptions for individuals with diet-related diseases or food insecurity. The program will include services such as fruit and vegetable prescriptions or vouchers provided by medical professionals, clinical nutrition education, and other interventions for beneficiaries with three or more chronic, diet-related health conditions.

The pilot will consist of two randomized cohorts, each with a minimum of 142 participants, with the first cohort receiving services for six months, followed by the second cohort receiving services for an additional six months. Depending on funding availability, the state may provide additional grocery support for other members of the covered individuals' households.

The Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) is required to ensure that federal financial participation is utilized to the maximum extent allowable and may pursue a Medicaid 1115 demonstration waiver if necessary to implement the provisions of this section.

A report detailing health outcomes, cost-effectiveness, impacts on food insecurity, and other individual or household benefits will be submitted to the General Assembly three months after the pilot program's conclusion. The report will also include a fiscal analysis and recommendations for expanding the pilot program statewide.

The bill mandates the inclusion of $1.5 million in general revenue funding for the pilot program in the fiscal year 2026 budget, with any unexpended funds at the end of the fiscal year being reappropriated for the same program in the ensuing fiscal year. The pilot program is set to expire on July 1, 2027.