JOINT RESOLUTION MAKING AN APPROPRIATION OF THE SUM OF $118,422 TO THE RHODE ISLAND PARENT INFORMATION NETWORK TO CONTINUE THE OPERATION OF THE RIPIN DUAL OBUDSMAN PROGRAM (Authorizes the appropriation of the sum of $118,422 to the Rhode Island Parent Information Network to support Rhode Island’s Medicare-Medicaid Dual Ombudsman Program.)

Plain-English Summary

This bill would approve a one-time payment of $118,422 in state funds to the Rhode Island Parent Information Network (RIPIN) to keep a specific advocacy program running. The program is called the "Dual Ombudsman Program," which helps Rhode Islanders who are enrolled in both Medicare and Medicaid at the same time — often called "dual eligible" individuals. These are typically older adults or people with disabilities who qualify for both the federal Medicare program and the state-federal Medicaid program.

An ombudsman is essentially an independent advocate who helps people navigate complex systems, resolve complaints, and understand their rights. Because people enrolled in both Medicare and Medicaid must deal with two separate programs that don't always work smoothly together, having a dedicated advocate can make a significant difference. RIPIN's Dual Ombudsman Program helps these individuals understand their benefits, sort out billing or coverage problems, and get connected to the services they need.

This bill directly affects Rhode Islanders — particularly seniors and people with disabilities — who are simultaneously enrolled in Medicare and Medicaid and may need help navigating those programs. It has been introduced and referred to the House Finance Committee, where lawmakers will review the funding request before deciding whether to move it forward.