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. Additionally, the bill allows for potential grocery support for other members of the covered individuals' households, depending on funding availability.

The Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) is tasked with ensuring maximum federal financial participation for the program and is authorized to pursue a Medicaid 1115 demonstration waiver request if necessary. 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's conclusion.

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.