2019 -- H 5915

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LC002243

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     STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

IN GENERAL ASSEMBLY

JANUARY SESSION, A.D. 2019

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A N   A C T

RELATING TO HUMAN SERVICES -- THERAPEUTIC RIDING

     

     Introduced By: Representatives Bennett, Chippendale, Edwards, Marszalkowski, and
Shekarchi

     Date Introduced: March 28, 2019

     Referred To: House Finance

     It is enacted by the General Assembly as follows:

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     SECTION 1. Title 40 of the General Laws entitled "HUMAN SERVICES" is hereby

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amended by adding thereto the following chapter:

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CHAPTER 8.16

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THERAPUETIC RIDING

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     40-8.16-1. Eligibility for therapeutic riding benefits.

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     All persons eligible for medical care benefits pursuant to § 40-8-3 and the regulations

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promulgated pursuant to § 40-8.16-3 shall also be eligible for benefits to be paid by Medicaid for

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"therapeutic riding," as that term is defined herein.

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     40-8.16-2. Definitions.

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     "Therapeutic riding" means an equine assisted activity for the purpose of contributing

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positively to the cognitive, physical, emotional, and social wellbeing of individuals with special

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needs.

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     40-8.16-3. Rules and regulations.

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     The department of human services and the secretary of the executive office of health and

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human services are hereby authorized and directed to amend their rules and regulations and

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amend the Rhode Island state plan for medical assistance (Medicaid) pursuant to Title XIX of the

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federal Social Security Act in order to provide for payment to eligible individuals for therapeutic

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riding services, and to establish eligibility guidelines to qualify for such services.

 

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     SECTION 2. This act shall take effect upon passage.

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EXPLANATION

BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL

OF

A N   A C T

RELATING TO HUMAN SERVICES -- THERAPEUTIC RIDING

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     This act would provide for Medicaid reimbursement for therapeutic riding services.

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     This act would take effect upon passage.

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