This bill amends various sections of the General Laws to enhance immunization coverage in Rhode Island. It establishes that the Department of Health will include routine childhood and adult immunization vaccines as recommended by the Advisory Committee for Immunization Practices (ACIP) or as deemed necessary by the director of the Department of Health to protect public health. Additionally, it mandates the formation of an advisory committee to review immunization recommendations and proposals, with a focus on assessing vaccine costs and feasibility.

The bill introduces new sections across multiple chapters of the General Laws, requiring that all individual or group medical service contracts and insurance policies issued or renewed in the state on or after January 1, 2027, provide coverage for vaccinations recommended by the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) without cost-sharing. This requirement extends to the medical assistance program, ensuring that all Medicaid beneficiaries, whether enrolled in fee-for-service or managed care, receive coverage for vaccinations without cost-sharing, to the extent permitted under federal law. Furthermore, Medicaid managed care organizations under contract with the executive office of health and human services are also mandated to provide this coverage. The director of administration is tasked with administering health benefit programs for state employees and retirees, ensuring they receive similar coverage without cost-sharing. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2379: 23-1-44