Bill > S0693

This bill expands eligibility for Medicare Savings Programs (MSP) in Rhode Island by modifying income limits for different categories of Medicare beneficiaries. Specifically, the bill increases the income threshold for Qualified Medicare Beneficiaries from 100% to 125% of the federal poverty line and establishes a new income range of 125% to 168% for Qualified Individuals to receive Medicare premium assistance. The programs help low-income seniors and people with disabilities by paying monthly Medicare premiums (currently $185/month in 2025), covering cost-sharing expenses like deductibles and co-payments, and providing automatic enrollment in the Part D Low-Income Subsidy (Extra Help) program, which can save enrollees an average of $5,300 annually on prescription drug costs. The bill removes asset limits for eligibility, allows for simplified application processes, and ensures that federal funding will cover the costs of premium payments. The legislation aims to improve economic security and healthcare access for vulnerable populations by aligning state Medicare assistance programs more closely with the needs of low-income residents. The changes will take effect immediately upon passage, with the state's health and human services secretary responsible for implementing the new program guidelines and submitting necessary federal approvals.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

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