JOINT RESOLUTION MAKING AN APPROPRIATION OF $10,000,000 TO THE RHODE ISLAND DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH COMMUNITY HEALTH WORKER INITIATIVE (Authorizes the appropriation of the sum of $10,000,000 to the Rhode Island Department of Health Community Health Worker Initiative.)

Rhode Island Community Health Worker Initiative Funding

This bill is a joint resolution that would authorize $10 million in funding for the Rhode Island Department of Health's Community Health Worker Initiative. Community health workers are trained professionals who act as a bridge between healthcare providers and the communities they serve — often helping people navigate health services, connect with resources, and manage chronic conditions, particularly in underserved or hard-to-reach neighborhoods.

The funding would support the expansion or continuation of this initiative across Rhode Island. Community health workers typically assist individuals who face barriers to traditional healthcare, such as language differences, lack of transportation, or economic hardship. By investing in this workforce, the state aims to improve health outcomes and ensure more residents can access the care and support they need.

This bill would primarily affect Rhode Island residents who rely on community-based health services, particularly those in low-income or medically underserved communities. It would also directly impact community health workers themselves, potentially supporting jobs and training programs in this field. Healthcare organizations and nonprofits that partner with the state on community health efforts could also be involved in how these funds are distributed and used.

The bill has been introduced and referred to the House Finance Committee, which means lawmakers will review the proposed spending before deciding whether to move it forward for a full vote.