The bill amends Chapter 30-8 of the General Laws by introducing a new section, 30-8-11, which establishes the Rhode Island orange heart medal. This medal may be awarded, in the name of the governor, to any person who, while serving as a commissioned officer, warrant officer, or enlisted person of the armed forces of the United States, including the reserve components, or of the Rhode Island National Guard while on active state or federal service, meets the criteria described in subsection (b) of this section.

To be eligible for the Rhode Island orange heart medal, a service member must meet the following conditions: (1) be a current or former resident of Rhode Island; (2) have served on active duty in the armed forces of the United States or Rhode Island National Guard at any time on or after December 6, 1941; (3) have documented exposure during service to hazardous materials, including herbicides used in military operations, open-air burn pits, or other chemical, biological, or radiological agents recognized as hazardous; (4) have been diagnosed with a service-connected illness or condition causally linked to the specified exposures, as recognized by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or documented in medical records and approved by the director of the office of veterans affairs; (5) have been discharged with either an honorable discharge or general discharge under honorable conditions; and (6) apply for the medal with supporting documentation of eligibility.

No more than one Rhode Island orange heart medal shall be awarded to any one person; however, for each additional condition verified to be caused by toxic exposure meeting the eligibility criteria, the recipient may receive a bronze oak leaf cluster in lieu of a second medal. The medal shall bear the words "Rhode Island Orange Heart Medal -- For Toxic Exposure Service" and may incorporate design elements reflecting toxic exposure recognition. The medal may be presented at a formal ceremony or delivered to the recipient by the director of the office of veterans affairs or designee.

The director of the office of veterans affairs, or designee, shall maintain a registry of all recipients and promulgate regulations for the administration, application process, and documentation requirements for the medal. All costs for designing, producing, distributing, and administering the award of the Rhode Island orange heart medal shall be subject to appropriation by the General Assembly. The act will take effect upon passage.