Rhode Island Senate Bill S0688

Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/25
• Refer: 3/7/25
• Report Pass: 5/6/25
• Engrossed: 5/13/25
• Refer: 5/14/25
• Report Pass: 5/27/25
• Enrolled: 6/10/25
• Passed: 6/13/25

Caption

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.