Makes a technical amendment to correctly reference a section of general law that allows for a tax refund deduction for contributions to the Rhode Island organ transplant fund.
Impact
The bill establishes specific guidelines for the use of the organ transplant fund. Disbursements from the fund will be allocated to cover non-reimbursed costs related to organ transplants. Notably, applications for disbursements can only be processed once the fund's principal amount reaches $15,000. This limitation is significant as it dictates when and how beneficiaries may access these funds, potentially affecting families in dire need of financial assistance for organ transplants.
Summary
Senate Bill 0688 aims to make a technical amendment to existing laws regarding the Rhode Island organ transplant fund. The amendment is designed to correctly reference a section of general law that allows for a tax refund deduction related to contributions made to this fund. The fund itself serves the purpose of providing financial assistance for organ transplant expenses incurred by Rhode Island residents. This includes covering hospital and medical care, necessary maintenance drugs, and certain out-of-state living expenses for families of transplant recipients.
Contention
While the bill clarifies the financial support available for organ transplant recipients, there may be concerns regarding the reliance on voluntary contributions and the conditions for accessing fund benefits. Some stakeholders might argue that the threshold for fund disbursement could delay vital assistance for individuals requiring immediate transplant-related expenses. Additionally, the limitation that the funds do not function as an entitlement program could provoke discussions about the adequacy of financial support provided for organ transplant recipients.
Creates the Rhode Island baby bond trust to provide investment funds to children born to families with public health insurance or no insurance living in Rhode Island.
Creates the Rhode Island baby bond trust to provide investment funds to children born to families with public health insurance or no insurance living in Rhode Island.
Joint Resolution Making An Appropriation Of $1,000,000 To The Rhode Island Council For The Humanities For Direct Grant Funding To Community Cultural Organizations Throughout Rhode Island (authorizes The Appropriation Of The Sum Of $1,000,000 To The Rhode Island Council For The Humanities To Continue Efforts To Support Local Cultural Organizations Throughout The State.)
Establishes the first time home buyer savings program act. Allows modifications to federal adjusted gross income for $50,000 in contributions and $150,000 of interest and dividends included in federal adjusted gross income.
Urges U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to reconsider implementation of new rules concerning organ procurement organizations.