The bill amends various sections of the General Laws to update terminology concerning older adults and individuals with disabilities. It empowers the law revision director to prepare a bill for the 2026 legislative session that will replace the terms "elder" and "elderly person(s)" with "older adult(s)" and "handicapped" or "disabled" with "adult person(s) with disabilities," while allowing for certain exemptions where existing terminology may conflict with government documents or cause confusion. Additionally, state departments or agencies can retain the existing terminology by notifying the law revision director.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the definitions and membership of the Long-Term Care Coordinating Council and the Statewide Planning Program. It mandates the council to review and make recommendations for amendments to Chapter 17.3 of Title 23 by March 31, 2026, and establishes a quorum of twelve members. A new requirement is introduced for a representative from a statewide aging advocacy organization who is sixty years of age or older to join the state planning council, thereby enhancing the representation of older adults in state planning processes. The bill reflects a commitment to improving support for the aging population in Rhode Island and is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5719: 42-11-10
5719  SUB A: 42-66-4.1, 42-11-10