The proposed bill, HB 8171, establishes a Food-as-Medicine Pilot Program in Rhode Island, aimed at addressing diet-related chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and obesity. The bill recognizes the barriers faced by individuals experiencing food insecurity and chronic illness in accessing nutritious food and highlights the potential benefits of evidence-based food-as-medicine interventions, including medically tailored meals.

To facilitate the program, a Food-as-Medicine Task Force is created within the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS). The Task Force will consist of various stakeholders, including the secretary of EOHHS, health officials, community representatives, and legislators. Its responsibilities include developing recommendations for the pilot program, identifying target populations that experience a disproportionate burden of diet-related chronic disease, defining eligibility criteria, and assessing collaboration opportunities with community service providers and insurers.

The bill authorizes the EOHHS to seek federal approval to implement the pilot program for eligible Medicaid beneficiaries, which may include coverage for evidence-based interventions. The Task Force is required to submit a report of its findings and recommendations to the governor, the speaker of the house of representatives, and the president of the senate by December 31, 2026. The report will include recommendations regarding the scope, design, and implementation of the pilot program, including any proposed legislation necessary to authorize or fund it. The bill emphasizes that no state expenditures will be required beyond those authorized through federal approval, existing appropriations, or future legislative action.