RI H8126

Creates the Rhode Island Comprehensive Health Insurance Program (RICHIP), a single-payer healthcare system administered by a 9-member board appointed by the governor, with coverage for all qualified Rhode Island residents including medical, dental, vision, mental health, prescription drugs, and reproductive care

Funded through a 10% payroll tax (80% employer-paid, 20% employee-paid), a 10% tax on unearned income (capital gains, dividends, interest), federal Medicare/Medicaid funds via waivers, and existing state healthcare appropriations deposited into a dedicated RICHIP trust fund

Prohibits private insurers from selling coverage that duplicates RICHIP benefits, phases out managed care contracts by July 1, 2030, and requires Medicaid reimbursement rates to equal or exceed Medicare rates (150% of Medicare for outpatient behavioral health)

Includes $850 million in bond referendums for healthcare infrastructure: $300 million for group homes and assisted living facilities, $50 million for state hospital improvements, and $500 million for a University of Rhode Island medical school

Raises Medicaid eligibility for elderly and disabled residents from 100% to 133% of federal poverty level, increases nursing facility personal needs allowance from $75 to $200/month, and expands paid sick leave from 40 hours to 160 hours annually beginning 2028