The bill amends Section 42-11-13 of the General Laws in Chapter 42-11, which pertains to the Rhode Island organ transplant fund. This fund is established to assist Rhode Island residents and their families with expenses related to human organ transplants. The general treasurer is responsible for managing the fund, which will consist of revenues from the newly referenced section, 44-30-2.5, as well as gifts and donations.

Disbursements from the fund can only occur once the principal reaches $15,000, and the funds will cover non-reimbursed costs associated with organ transplants, including medical care, prescribed drugs, and limited out-of-state living expenses. 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 met and funds are repaid.

The director of the department of human services is tasked with creating rules and regulations for the fund's operation, in consultation with the general treasurer. This act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
688: 42-11-13