This bill amends Sections 27-18-25, 27-19-75, and 27-20-71 of the General Laws in Rhode Island to enhance protections against unfair discrimination in health-benefit plans. It introduces new language that prohibits individuals from being excluded from participation in, denied benefits of, or subjected to discrimination under any health-benefit plan based on actual or perceived characteristics such as race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin (including language), sex (including sex characteristics, sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression), pregnancy, childbirth, age, disability, or any combination thereof.

The bill defines key terms, including "health-benefit plan" and "healthcare entity," to clarify its application. It outlines specific prohibitions for healthcare entities, including denying, canceling, delaying, limiting, or refusing to issue or renew a health-benefit plan based on the aforementioned characteristics; implementing discriminatory marketing practices or benefit designs; and having categorical coverage exclusions or limitations for health services related to gender transition or reproductive health care.

Additionally, the bill states that healthcare entities may not deny or limit coverage, impose additional cost-sharing, or implement other restrictions on coverage for specific health services related to gender transition or other gender-affirming care if such actions result in discrimination against a member of a protected class. It emphasizes that while healthcare entities may deny or limit coverage for legitimate, nondiscriminatory reasons, such actions must not be based on unlawful animus or bias, nor can they serve as a pretext for discrimination.

The amendments aim to create a more equitable healthcare system, ensuring that all individuals have access to necessary health services without facing discrimination. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
6368: 27-18-25, 27-19-75, 27-20-71, 27-41-88