The bill establishes a framework for the creation of equity zones in Rhode Island, directed by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS). These equity zones will consist of local multisector collaboratives that include nonprofits, service providers, advocates, community members, state agencies, and municipalities, with the goal of addressing social determinants of health at a local level.

The EOHHS is tasked with supporting these equity zones by promoting resident leadership development, civic engagement, and capacity-building efforts to ensure that those most affected by inequities are leading the solutions. The EOHHS will also focus on addressing the root causes of health and economic disparities locally and sharing lessons learned and best practices among equity zones to enhance their collective impact statewide.

To facilitate this, the EOHHS will collect, track, analyze, and share relevant data, provide direct assistance to improve the quality and functionality of equity zones, connect them with technical assistance providers as needed, and coordinate with other state departments on issues such as housing and economic development to ensure a comprehensive approach.

Funding for the equity zone network will be sourced from state appropriations combined with federal dollars, with the aim of equitably sustaining existing equity zones. This act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.