RI
Rhode Island Senate Bill S0339

Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S0339

Introduced
2/21/25  
Refer
2/21/25  
Report Pass
6/5/25  

Caption

Appropriates the sum of five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000) to fund the Thundermist family medicine residency program during fiscal year 2026 and every fiscal year thereafter.

Impact

If enacted, S0339 will add Chapter 8.16 to Title 40 of the General Laws, which represents a significant legislative effort to bolster healthcare education in Rhode Island. The funds will be utilized for various operational and educational activities, including recruitment and retention strategies for both residents and faculty, curriculum development focusing on community health, and the expansion of clinical training sites. Additionally, these funds are designated to support the purchase of equipment necessary for modern training and patient care improvements, thereby enhancing the operational capacity of the residency program.

Summary

Bill S0339 proposes the appropriation of $500,000 annually to support the Thundermist Family Medicine Residency Program in Rhode Island. The primary aim of this funding is to enhance the program's capacity to train new primary care physicians, particularly targeting the healthcare needs of underserved and rural populations. By investing in family medicine residency programs, the bill intends to address the growing demand for primary care services in the state and improve overall health outcomes for residents.

Contention

While the bill outlines benefits for healthcare access and primary care training, it may generate discussions regarding the allocation of state resources. Advocacy groups may debate whether the funds directed to the Thundermist program could also support other healthcare initiatives in different localities in need. Moreover, the bill includes reporting requirements, mandating the residency program to submit annual reports detailing the use of funds and the program's impact on healthcare access in Rhode Island. The effectiveness of this funding measure will likely be evaluated based on the tangible outcomes it generates in the years to come.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S2085

Increases insurance coverage for hearing aids from one thousand five hundred dollars to two thousand dollars, per ear, every three years for all people regardless of age.

RI H7225

MAKING APPROPRIATIONS FOR THE SUPPORT OF THE STATE FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDING JUNE 30, 2025

RI H5200

Making Appropriations For The Support Of The State For The Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2024

RI S2065

Increases the net taxable estate exemption to three million six hundred thousand dollars ($3,600,000) on January 1, 2025. Also increases the exemption by one million dollars ($1,000,000) on January 1 per year thereafter.

RI H7197

Increases insurance coverage for hearing aids from one thousand five hundred dollars to one thousand seven hundred fifty dollars, per ear, for all people regardless of age.

RI S2072

Designates, for fiscal year 2025, the usage for certain funds within the immunization account.

RI H7204

Designates, for fiscal year 2025, the usage for certain funds within the immunization account.

RI S2156

Increases the maximum post retirement employment earnings from eighteen thousand dollars ($18,000) to twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000) a year for certain retired educators.

RI H7029

Increases the maximum post retirement employment earnings from eighteen thousand dollars ($18,000) to twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000) a year for certain retired educators.

RI H7669

Increases the department's standard, burial allowance payment from nine hundred dollars ($900) to one thousand five hundred dollars ($1,500).

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.