reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-64 - Protected Cell Companies Act › Section 27-64-7. - Conservation, rehabilitation and liquidation of protected cell companies.

§ 27-64-7. Conservation, rehabilitation and liquidation of protected cell companies.
(a)
Notwithstanding any contrary provision in the insurance code of this state, the rules and regulations promulgated under the insurance code, or any other applicable law or regulation, upon placement under administrative supervision or upon any order of conservation, rehabilitation or liquidation of a protected cell company, the receiver shall be bound to deal with the protected cell company’s assets and liabilities, including protected cell assets and protected cell liabilities, in accordance with the requirements set forth in this chapter.
(b)
With respect to amounts recoverable under a protected cell company insurance securitization, the amount recoverable by the receiver shall not be reduced or diminished as a result of the placement under administrative supervision or entry of an order of conservation, rehabilitation or liquidation with respect to the protected cell company or any of its protected cells, notwithstanding any provisions to the contrary in the contracts or other documentation governing the protected cell company insurance securitization.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 22, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 156, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-64 - Protected Cell Companies Act › Section 27-64-9. - Remuneration of receivers.

§ 27-64-9. Remuneration of receivers.
(a)
With respect to orders of rehabilitation, conservation or liquidation directed at a protected cell company, the remuneration, expenses, and other compensation of the receiver shall be payable from the assets of the company’s general account, in accordance with the priority of distribution set forth in §§ 27-14.3-46 and 27-14.4-20.
(b)
With respect to orders of rehabilitation, conservation or liquidation directed at a protected cell, the remuneration, expenses, and other compensation of the receiver shall be payable from the protected cell assets attributable to that protected cell. In the case where more than one protected cell is the subject of the order, the receiver shall account for remuneration, expenses, and other compensation separately for each protected cell in accordance with actual time and expenses attributable to the rehabilitation, conservation or liquidation of each respective protected cell.
(c)
With respect to orders of rehabilitation, conservation or liquidation directed at a protected cell company during a pending rehabilitation, conservation or liquidation of one or more protected cells, the remuneration, expenses, and other compensation of the receiver of the protected cells shall be satisfied from the protected cell assets of the protected cell or cells in accordance with the provisions of subsection (b) of this section, and the remuneration, expenses, and other compensation of the receiver of the protected cell company shall be satisfied from the assets of the company’s general account.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 22, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 156, § 1; P.L. 2023, ch. 395, art. 1, § 21, effective December 31, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-64 - Protected Cell Companies Act › Section 27-64-10. - Penalties.

§ 27-64-10. Penalties.
Any person violating the provisions of this chapter shall be subject to any and all enforcement procedures either currently employed or subsequently promulgated by the commissioner including, but not limited to, the imposition of fines, sanctions, or civil penalties, or an order to cease and desist from the establishment of additional protected cells. In no event shall the commissioner have the authority to cease the business of an existing protected cell, except by placement under administrative supervision or by order of rehabilitation, conservation or liquidation in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 22, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 156, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-64 - Protected Cell Companies Act › Section 27-64-11. - No transaction of insurance business.

§ 27-64-11. No transaction of insurance business.
A protected cell company insurance securitization shall not be deemed to be an insurance or reinsurance contract. An investor in a protected cell company insurance securitization shall not, by sole means of this investment, be deemed to be transacting an insurance business in this state. The underwriters or selling agents (and their partners, directors, officers, members, managers, employees, agents, representatives and advisors) involved in a protected cell company insurance securitization shall not be deemed to be conducting an insurance or reinsurance agency, brokerage, intermediary, advisory or consulting business by virtue of their activities in connection with those businesses.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 22, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 156, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-65 - Commercial Special Risks › Section 27-65-2. - “Risk manager” defined.

§ 27-65-2. “Risk manager” defined.
As used in this chapter, “risk manager” means a full-time employee of, or a person certified and licensed and retained by, an exempt commercial policyholder who is qualified through: (1) education and experience; or (2) training and experience; to assess an exempt commercial policyholder’s insurance needs and analyze and negotiate a policy of insurance and having primary responsibility or oversight of the risk management activities/function of an exempt commercial policyholder. A risk manager shall not receive commission, fees, or other consideration from the insurer in connection with the purchase of a commercial policy of insurance by the exempt commercial policyholder.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 47, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-66 - The Health Insurance Conversions Act › Section 27-66-1. - Short title.

§ 27-66-1. Short title.
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as “The Health Insurance Conversions Act.”
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 215, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 376, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-66 - The Health Insurance Conversions Act › Section 27-66-2. - Findings.

§ 27-66-2. Findings.
The general assembly finds and declares that:
(1)
Rhode Island has a proud history of health insurance companies including health insurance corporations, health maintenance organizations, nonprofit hospital service corporations, and nonprofit medical service corporations doing business in this state;
(2)
Nationally and regionally, private investment is being made that results in the conversion of not-for-profit into for-profit health insurance corporations, health maintenance organizations, hospital service corporations, and medical service corporations;
(3)
These health insurance organizations and corporations provide an important health insurance product in the community. There are concerns that for-profit health insurance organizations and corporations may engage in practices that affect the quality of the insurance coverage in the community as a whole and for more vulnerable members of society in particular;
(4)
In order to protect public health and welfare, it is necessary to establish standards and procedures for health insurance organizations and corporation conversions.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 215, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 376, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-66 - The Health Insurance Conversions Act › Section 27-66-3. - Applicability.

§ 27-66-3. Applicability.
This chapter shall apply to health insurance corporations subject to chapter 1 of this title, nonprofit hospital or medical service corporations subject to chapter 19 or 20 of this title, and health maintenance organizations incorporated or resident in the state of Rhode Island.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 215, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 376, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-66 - The Health Insurance Conversions Act › Section 27-66-5. - Prior approval required — Department of business regulation.

§ 27-66-5. Prior approval required — Department of business regulation.
A conversion shall require review and approval from the department of business regulation, after a public hearing, in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 215, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 376, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-66 - The Health Insurance Conversions Act › Section 27-66-7.1. - Certain financial incentives prohibited.

§ 27-66-7.1. Certain financial incentives prohibited.
It being generally contrary to the public interest to lose local control of a nonprofit health insurer providing the majority of private health insurance coverage within the state, and such payments as are herein forbidden providing inducements to do so for personal gain, no officer, director, or senior management employee of a nonprofit hospital and/or medical service corporation or of any subsidiary of such corporation shall solicit, accept, receive, or maintain claim of right to any financial incentive, including any pecuniary reward, based in whole or in part on the contingency of, or as a result of, the completion of a conversion. For purposes of this section, “pecuniary award” includes, but is not limited to, bonuses, cash payouts, deferred payments, stock options, and enhanced retirement packages. Nothing in this section shall be deemed to prohibit the employment of such an officer, director, or employee by a successor corporation or entity following the completion of a conversion, nor to prohibit reasonable severance payments where no conversion is involved.
History of Section.
P.L. 2004, ch. 330, § 3; P.L. 2004, ch. 567, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-66 - The Health Insurance Conversions Act › Section 27-66-9. - Reports, use of experts, costs.

§ 27-66-9. Reports, use of experts, costs.
The department of business regulation and/or the department of the attorney general may, in effectuating the purposes of this chapter, engage experts or consultants including, but not limited to, actuaries, investment bankers, accountants, attorneys, or industry analysts. All copies of reports prepared by experts and consultants, and costs associated with them, shall be made available to the transacting parties and to the public. All costs incurred under this provision shall be the responsibility of one or more transacting parties in an amount to be determined by the director as he or she deems appropriate. No application for a conversion made pursuant to the requirements of this chapter shall be considered complete unless an agreement has been executed with the director for the payment of costs in accordance with this section.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 215, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 376, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-66 - The Health Insurance Conversions Act › Section 27-66-10. - Investigation — Notice to attend — Court order to appear — Contempt.

§ 27-66-10. Investigation — Notice to attend — Court order to appear — Contempt.
(a)
The director and/or the department of the attorney general may conduct investigations in discharging the duties required under this chapter. For purposes of this investigation, the director or the attorney general may require any person, agent, trustee, fiduciary, consultant, institution, association, or corporation directly related to the proposed conversion to appear at any time and place that the director or the attorney general may designate, then and there under oath to produce for the use of the director or the attorney general any and all documents and other information.
(b)
Whenever the director or the attorney general may require the attendance of any person as provided in subsection (a), the director or the attorney general shall issue a notice setting the time and place when the attendance is required and shall cause the notice to be delivered or sent by registered or certified mail to the person at least fourteen (14) days before the date fixed in the notice for the attendance.
(c)
If any person receiving notice pursuant to this provision neglects to attend or remain in attendance so long as may be necessary for the purposes for which the notice was issued, or refuses to produce information requested, any justice of the superior court for the county within which the inquiry is carried on or within which the person resides or transacts business, upon application by the director or the attorney general, or any transacting party shall have jurisdiction to hear and consider on an expedited basis the request, and if appropriate and relevant to the consideration of proposed conversion, may issue to the person an order requiring the person to appear before the director or the attorney general there to produce for the use of the director or the attorney general evidence in accordance with the terms of the order of the court, and any failure to obey the order of the superior court may be punished by the court as contempt of court.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 215, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 376, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-66 - The Health Insurance Conversions Act › Section 27-66-11. - Perjury.

§ 27-66-11. Perjury.
Any person who is found to have testified falsely under oath before the general assembly, department of business regulation, or department of attorney general, pursuant to this chapter shall be subject to prosecution for perjury and be subject to the penalties set forth in § 11-33-1.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 215, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 376, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-66 - The Health Insurance Conversions Act › Section 27-66-12. - Licensing fees.

§ 27-66-12. Licensing fees.
Nothing contained in this chapter shall be deemed to affect the licensing fees set forth in chapters 19, 20, and 41 of this title.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 215, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 376, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-66 - The Health Insurance Conversions Act › Section 27-66-13. - Concurrent approval — License.

§ 27-66-13. Concurrent approval — License.
A decision of the director required by this chapter shall be subject to chapter 35 of title 42. For any conversion subject to this chapter, the director may combine any hearings required by this chapter with any hearings on similar or related matters required by chapters 19, 20, and 41 of this title and shall consider issues of market share especially as they affect quality, access, and affordability of service.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 215, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 376, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-66 - The Health Insurance Conversions Act › Section 27-66-14. - No derogation of attorney general.

§ 27-66-14. No derogation of attorney general.
(a)
No provision of this chapter shall derogate from the common law or statutory authority of the attorney general nor shall any provision be construed as a limitation on the common law or statutory authority of the attorney general, including the authority to investigate at any time charitable trusts for the purpose of determining and ascertaining whether they are being administered in accordance with law and with the terms and purposes of those trusts.
(b)
No provision of this chapter shall be construed as a limitation on the application of the doctrine of cy pres or any other legal doctrine applicable to charitable assets and/or charitable trusts.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 215, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 376, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-66 - The Health Insurance Conversions Act › Section 27-66-15. - Distribution of proceeds from acquisition — Selection and establishment of an independent foundation.

§ 27-66-15. Distribution of proceeds from acquisition — Selection and establishment of an independent foundation.
(a)
In the event of the approval of a conversion involving a not-for-profit corporation, as an acquiree, it may be required that the proceeds from the sale and any endowments, restricted, unrestricted and specific purpose funds may be transferred to a charitable foundation established in this section.
(b)
The determination whether the proceeds of the conversion shall be transferred to the foundation established in this section shall be made pursuant to the common law doctrine of cy pres and chapter 4 of title 18.
(c)
The board of directors shall consist of an executive director, who shall serve ex-officio, and nine (9) members, all of whom shall be citizens and residents of this state and none of whom shall be members of the general assembly, and three (3) of whom shall be appointed by the governor, three (3) of whom shall be appointed by the speaker of the house, and three (3) of whom shall be appointed by the president of the senate. The board members may include one or more members with experience in matters including financial, legal, business, labor, healthcare delivery, investments, community purpose, grant-making, health insurance and members who represent diverse populations of the affected community and not more than three (3) members of the board may be prior board members of the acquiree.
(d)
The members shall be appointed for terms of three (3) years except for the three (3) members originally appointed by each of the appointing authorities; one shall be appointed for a term of one year, one shall be appointed for a term of two (2) years, and one for a term of three (3) years. The board shall annually elect a chairperson from among its members and other officers it deems necessary for the performance of its duties and board members shall not receive compensation.
(e)
Control of the distribution of the proceeds of the fund is vested solely in the board provided, the investment responsibility shall be through the “Rhode Island Foundation,” or similar foundation.
(f)
Vacancies occurring on the board may be filled by a majority vote of the remaining board members.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 215, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 376, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 180, § 58.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-66 - The Health Insurance Conversions Act › Section 27-66-16. - Powers and duties of the board.

§ 27-66-16. Powers and duties of the board.
The board is vested with full power, authority, and jurisdiction over the foundation and may perform all acts necessary or convenient in the exercise of any power, authority, or jurisdiction over the foundation; including the power to intervene in any cy pres proceeding involving the transfer of proceeds from healthcare conversion in order to seek their transfer to the foundation, or as an amicus curiae.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 215, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 376, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-66 - The Health Insurance Conversions Act › Section 27-66-17. - Personal liability excluded.

§ 27-66-17. Personal liability excluded.
The members of the board and officers or employees of the foundation are not liable personally, either jointly or severally, for any debt or obligation created or incurred by the foundation unless that conduct is deemed to be gross misconduct or reckless.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 215, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 376, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-66 - The Health Insurance Conversions Act › Section 27-66-18. - Implementation.

§ 27-66-18. Implementation.
(a)
The attorney general may take all steps necessary to effectuate the purposes of § 27-66-15 and the board shall be appointed no more than sixty (60) days after the completion of the conversion. The board shall act promptly to appoint an executive director, hire any staff as necessary, and acquire necessary facilities and supplies to begin the operation of the foundation.
(b)
The board shall conduct a public hearing to solicit comments on the proposed mission statement, program agenda, corporate structure, and strategic planning. The board shall hold a public hearing within one hundred eighty (180) days of establishment of the board and on an annual basis after this.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 215, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 376, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-66 - The Health Insurance Conversions Act › Section 27-66-19. - Annual report.

§ 27-66-19. Annual report.
The board shall submit an annual report and a copy of Form 990 as required by the Internal Revenue Service to the governor, the attorney general, and the legislature.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 215, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 376, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-66 - The Health Insurance Conversions Act › Section 27-66-20. - General powers and limitations.

§ 27-66-20. General powers and limitations.
For the purposes of exercising the specific powers granted in this chapter and effectuating the other purposes of this chapter, the foundation:
(1)
May be sued and sue;
(2)
May have a seal and alter it at will;
(3)
May make, amend, and repeal rules relating to the conduct of the business of the foundation;
(4)
May enter into contracts relating to the administration of the foundation;
(5)
May rent, lease, buy, or sell property in its own name and may construct or repair buildings necessary to provide space for its operations;
(6)
May hire personnel, consultants, and experts and set salaries; and
(7)
May perform all other functions and exercise all other powers that are necessary, appropriate, or convenient to administer the foundation.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 215, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 376, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-66 - The Health Insurance Conversions Act › Section 27-66-21. - Failure to comply — Penalties.

§ 27-66-21. Failure to comply — Penalties.
If any person knowingly violates or fails to comply with any provision of this chapter or willingly or knowingly gives false or incorrect information:
(1)
The director may, after notice and opportunity for a prompt and fair hearing to the applicant or licensee, deny, suspend, or revoke a license, or take corrective action necessary to secure compliance under this chapter; or
(2)
The superior court, after notice and opportunity for a prompt and fair hearing, may impose a fine of not more than one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000) or impose a prison term of not more than five (5) years.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 215, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 376, § 1; P.L. 2009, ch. 310, § 10.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-66 - The Health Insurance Conversions Act › Section 27-66-22. - Powers of the department of business regulation.

§ 27-66-22. Powers of the department of business regulation.
The department may adopt rules, including measurable standards, as may be necessary to accomplish the purpose of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 215, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 376, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-66 - The Health Insurance Conversions Act › Section 27-66-23. - Determination of confidentiality by the department of business regulation.

§ 27-66-23. Determination of confidentiality by the department of business regulation.
The director shall have the power to decide whether any information required by this chapter of an applicant is confidential and/or proprietary. The decisions by the department of business regulation shall be made prior to any public notice of an initial application or any public review of the information.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 215, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 376, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-66 - The Health Insurance Conversions Act › Section 27-66-24. - Exceptions — Rehabilitation, liquidation, or conservation.

§ 27-66-24. Exceptions — Rehabilitation, liquidation, or conservation.
No proposed conversion shall be subject to this chapter in the event that the health insurance corporation, health maintenance corporation, a nonprofit hospital service corporation, nonprofit medical service corporation, or affiliate or subsidiary of them is subject to an order from the superior court directing the director to rehabilitate, liquidate, or conserve, as provided in §§ 27-19-28, 27-20-24, 27-41-18, or chapter 14.1, 14.2, 14.3, or 14.4 of this title.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 215, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 376, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 292, § 95.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-66 - The Health Insurance Conversions Act › Section 27-66-25. - Applicability.

§ 27-66-25. Applicability.
The acquirors shall be subject to the provisions of chapters 17.12 [repealed] and 17.13 [repealed] of title 23.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 215, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 376, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-66 - The Health Insurance Conversions Act › Section 27-66-26. - Conflict of law.

§ 27-66-26. Conflict of law.
The provisions of this chapter shall supersede the provisions of chapters 19, 20, and 41 of this title in conflict with this chapter. Except as expressly provided in this chapter, this chapter shall supersede chapter 35 of this title with respect to conversions subject to this chapter, except for conversions involving domestic insurance companies subject to chapter 1 of this title, which conversion shall be subject to chapter 35 of this title.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 215, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 376, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-66 - The Health Insurance Conversions Act › Section 27-66-27. - Severability.

§ 27-66-27. Severability.
If any provision of this chapter or its application to any person or circumstances is held invalid, that invalidity shall not affect other provisions or applications of the chapter, which can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this end the provisions of this chapter are declared to be severable.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 215, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 376, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-67 - The Health Insurance Market Expansion Act › Section 27-67-2. - Findings.

§ 27-67-2. Findings.
The general assembly finds and declares that:
(1)
Rhode Island has a proud history of health insurance companies including health insurance corporations, health maintenance organizations, nonprofit hospital service corporations, and nonprofit medical service corporations doing business in this state;
(2)
Nationally and regionally, insurance corporations, health maintenance organizations, hospital service corporations, and medical service corporations, are being consolidated or are departing from some state insurance markets. Rhode Island is one of twelve (12) states with three (3) or fewer health insurers active in the group insurance market;
(3)
One reason cited for the departure of health insurers from the state of Rhode Island is the size of our population. States with larger populations offer a greater opportunity for competition and profit; and
(4)
A regional approach to health insurance that joins Rhode Island’s health insurance market with those of the other New England states may expand the opportunities for regional insurers to offer insurance in Rhode Island.
History of Section.
P.L. 2004, ch. 383, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 99, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 160, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-67 - The Health Insurance Market Expansion Act › Section 27-67-3. - Definitions.

§ 27-67-3. Definitions.
As used in this chapter:
(1)
“Department” means the department of business regulation.
(2)
“Health insurer” means a health insurance corporation, health maintenance organization, nonprofit hospital service corporation, or nonprofit medical service corporation as defined in chapters 1, 18, 19, and 20 of this title.
History of Section.
P.L. 2004, ch. 383, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 99, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 160, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-67 - The Health Insurance Market Expansion Act › Section 27-67-4. - Establishment of regional health insurance market.

§ 27-67-4. Establishment of regional health insurance market.
The health insurance commissioner shall undertake a review of the existing laws and regulations pertaining to the business of health insurance in this state, and in other New England states. On or before March 1, 2009, the health insurance commissioner shall submit a report to the general assembly on what changes would be necessary to the laws and/or regulations of Rhode Island in order to meet the goal of enabling health insurers licensed in other New England states to do business in Rhode Island without a separate application for licensure in Rhode Island. The report shall address the policy implications of implementing the identified changes in law and regulations, and the potential advantages and disadvantages of creating a regional health insurance market.
The report shall further address the extent to which licensure is a barrier to bringing other health insurers into the Rhode Island market. The report shall further address the manner in which licensure can be automatically granted to those insurers licensed in other New England states while still requiring that such insurers otherwise remain bound by the non-licensure related laws and regulations governing the administration of health insurance benefit plans in Rhode Island. The report shall include an analysis of barriers to the creation of a regional health insurance market and a proposed timeline for implementing all changes that would be needed to establish a regional health insurance market.
History of Section.
P.L. 2004, ch. 383, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 99, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 160, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-68 - Pilot Primary Care Program for the Uninsured › Section 27-68-1. - Legislative findings.

§ 27-68-1. Legislative findings.
The general assembly hereby finds and declares that:
(1)
Although Rhode Island has one of the highest rates of health insurance coverage in the nation, gaps in coverage remain and the rate of coverage dropped significantly during the past year.
(2)
From 2001 to 2002, the state’s uninsured rate for working age adults went from eight percent (8%) to eleven percent (11%), one of eighteen (18) states in the country with a significant increase.
(3)
Significant health insurance premium rate increases over the past two (2) years especially for small businesses and the self-insured are contributing to an increase in the rate of the uninsured.
(4)
The largest segment of uninsured Rhode Island residents are adults with low incomes, many of whom are employed.
(5)
Individuals without health coverage often resort to expensive emergency room care that ultimately drives up the overall cost of care for everyone and adds to the state’s uncompensated care burden.
(6)
Rhode Island residents’ use of emergency room services is greater than that of the nation.
(7)
The institute of medicine defines primary care as the provision of integrated, accessible healthcare services by clinicians who are accountable for addressing a large majority of personal healthcare needs, developing a sustained partnership with patients, and practicing in the context of family and community.
(8)
Access to primary health care should be available to every resident of the state regardless of income and whether or not they have access to health insurance.
History of Section.
P.L. 2004, ch. 611, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-68 - Pilot Primary Care Program for the Uninsured › Section 27-68-2. - Pilot primary care program established.

§ 27-68-2. Pilot primary care program established.
To increase access to primary care for those state residents who do not have access to health insurance coverage or who are unable to afford health insurance coverage, the director of the state department of human services in collaboration with the director of the department of health shall develop a plan for a pilot primary care program for uninsured residents of the state. The pilot program may include enrollee premiums and co-insurance payments that are income-based with premiums and/or co-insurance subsidized by the state. The pilot program may also include catastrophic or reinsurance coverage provided under the auspices of the state. In designing the pilot program, the director may consider a variety of service delivery and financing models including capitation payments to private physicians, a buy-in program under RIte Care, and coverage arrangements purchased from qualified community health centers. In developing the pilot program, the director may seek available federal grant monies, including Medicaid, and private foundation grants. The director shall submit the plan for the pilot primary care program to the governor, the speaker of the house, the president of the senate, the majority leaders of the house and senate, and the chairpersons of the house and senate finance committees by January 15, 2005. The plan shall include eligibility criteria for participation in the pilot program, the scope of services to be offered, the geographic area and population to be served, and cost estimates to implement the program.
History of Section.
P.L. 2004, ch. 611, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-69 - Mandated Benefits › Section 27-69-1. - Purpose.

§ 27-69-1. Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to provide for the availability of health plans that qualify as high deductible health plans that may be purchased for use with a health savings account and all similar plans that may be tax-favored under title 26 of the United States Code, as amended from time to time, and under those laws of this state that provide for taxation. This chapter shall be liberally construed to allow employers, employees, and individuals to receive maximum tax benefits provided in federal or state law through use of high deductibles and other cost sharing by a beneficiary.
History of Section.
P.L. 2005, ch. 97, § 5; P.L. 2005, ch. 99, § 5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-69 - Mandated Benefits › Section 27-69-2. - Definitions.

§ 27-69-2. Definitions.
As used in this chapter:
(1)
“Commissioner” shall mean the director of the department of business regulation or the health insurance commissioner, as appropriate.
(2)
“Health plan” shall mean “health insurance coverage” as defined in §§ 27-18.5-2 and 27-18.6-2 or “health benefit plan” as defined in § 27-50-3.
(3)
“High deductible health plan” shall have the same meaning as defined in 26 U.S.C. § 223.
(4)
“Mandated benefit law” shall mean any law of this state that requires provision of health insurance coverage for a specified service or payment to a specified type of healthcare provider, including, but not limited to, the benefits or services mandated in §§ 27-18-48.1, 27-18-60, 27-18-62, 27-18-64, similar provisions in chapters 19, 20, and 41 of this title, and §§ 27-18-3(c), 27-38.2-1 et seq., and all mandated benefit laws passed subsequent to the effective date of this chapter unless applicability of this chapter is specifically excluded in such law.
History of Section.
P.L. 2005, ch. 97, § 5; P.L. 2005, ch. 99, § 5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-69 - Mandated Benefits › Section 27-69-3. - Deductibles and other cost sharing.

§ 27-69-3. Deductibles and other cost sharing.
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in any mandated benefit law, no mandated benefit law shall be construed to forbid inclusion in any health plan of a provision for any deductible and/or other cost-sharing provisions suitable to qualify a health plan, which may be purchased for use with health savings accounts for a tax preference, as a high deductible health plan or any other similar federal or state tax preference available now or in the future; provided, however, that this section shall not exempt high deductible health plans from any other provision of applicable mandated benefit laws. The commissioner shall retain jurisdiction to approve policies, rates, and forms for all high deductible health plans pursuant to the provisions of this title and title 42.
History of Section.
P.L. 2005, ch. 97, § 5; P.L. 2005, ch. 99, § 5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-69 - Mandated Benefits › Section 27-69-4. - Rules and regulations.

§ 27-69-4. Rules and regulations.
The commissioner shall promulgate any rules or regulations as the commissioner shall deem necessary for the efficient administration of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2005, ch. 97, § 5; P.L. 2005, ch. 99, § 5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-69 - Mandated Benefits › Section 27-69-5. - Severability.

§ 27-69-5. Severability.
If any provision of this chapter or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the invalidity shall not affect other provisions or applications of this chapter which can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and for this purpose the provisions of this chapter are severable.
History of Section.
P.L. 2005, ch. 97, § 5; P.L. 2005, ch. 99, § 5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-69 - Mandated Benefits › Section 27-69-6. - [Repealed.]

§ 27-69-6. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 2005, ch. 97, § 5; P.L. 2005, ch. 99, § 5; P.L. 2009, ch. 180, § 1; P.L. 2009, ch. 182, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2011, ch. 42, § 1; P.L. 2011, ch. 51, § 1, effective June 6, 2011.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-69 - Mandated Benefits › Section 27-69-7. - Mandated benefit statement of intent.

§ 27-69-7. Mandated benefit statement of intent.
Notwithstanding any general law enacted after January 1, 2014, any legislation that would create a new state health benefit mandate, or expand upon an existing health benefit, shall contain a statement of intent that clearly provides the purpose and objectives of the health benefit mandate, including measurable goals expected to be achieved by the new or expanded benefit mandate. These goals should address both commercial insurance affordability and population health outcomes.
History of Section.
P.L. 2013, ch. 341, § 5; P.L. 2013, ch. 394, § 5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-70 - Health Insurance Tax Incentive › Section 27-70-1. - Short title.

§ 27-70-1. Short title.
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as “The Health Insurance Tax Incentive.”
History of Section.
P.L. 2007, ch. 125, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 231, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-70 - Health Insurance Tax Incentive › Section 27-70-2. - Definitions.

§ 27-70-2. Definitions.
As used in this chapter:
(1)
“Employee” has the meaning set forth in § 28-42-3.
(2)
“Employer” has the meaning set forth in § 28-42-3.
History of Section.
P.L. 2007, ch. 125, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 231, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-70 - Health Insurance Tax Incentive › Section 27-70-3. - Cafeteria plans.

§ 27-70-3. Cafeteria plans.
On or before July 1, 2009, each employer with annual average employment of more than twenty-five (25) employees for six (6) consecutive months of the year in the state of Rhode Island shall adopt and maintain for its employees a cafeteria plan that satisfies the Internal Revenue Code 26 U.S.C. § 125 and the rules and regulations promulgated by the office of the health insurance commissioner and through which the employees and their dependents may purchase health insurance. Nothing in this section shall be construed to require an employer covered by this section to pay for, or otherwise contribute to, the cost of any health insurance purchased through the cafeteria plan.
History of Section.
P.L. 2007, ch. 125, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 231, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-70 - Health Insurance Tax Incentive › Section 27-70-4. - Regulatory oversight.

§ 27-70-4. Regulatory oversight.
The director of the department of labor and training shall have the authority to promulgate rules and regulations for the implementation and administration of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2007, ch. 125, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 231, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-71 - Market Conduct Surveillance Act › Section 27-71-1. - Short title.

§ 27-71-1. Short title.
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the “Market Conduct Surveillance Act.”
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 72, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 233, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-71 - Market Conduct Surveillance Act › Section 27-71-2. - Purpose — Legislative intent.

§ 27-71-2. Purpose — Legislative intent.
(a)
The purpose of this chapter is to establish a framework for insurance market conduct actions, including:
(1)
Processes and systems for identifying, assessing, and prioritizing market conduct problems that have an adverse impact on consumers, policyholders, and claimants;
(2)
Market conduct actions by a commissioner to substantiate such market conduct problems and a means to remedy market conduct problems; and
(3)
Procedures to communicate and coordinate market conduct actions among states to foster the most efficient and effective use of resources.
(b)
This chapter does not apply to entities regulated by the office of health insurance commissioner under chapter 14.5 of title 42 (“The Rhode Island Healthcare Reform Act of 2004 — Health Insurance Oversight”) or any insurer licensed only in the state of Rhode Island.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 72, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 233, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-71 - Market Conduct Surveillance Act › Section 27-71-6. - Protocols for market conduct actions.

§ 27-71-6. Protocols for market conduct actions.
(a)
Market conduct actions taken as a result of a market analysis shall focus on the general business practices and compliance activities of insurers, rather than identifying infrequent or unintentional random errors that do not cause consumer harm.
(b)(1)
The commissioner is authorized to determine the frequency and timing of such market conduct actions. The timing shall depend upon the specific market conduct action to be initiated, unless extraordinary circumstances indicating a risk to consumers require immediate action.
(2)
If the commissioner has information that more than one insurer is engaged in common practices that may violate statute or regulations, he or she may schedule and coordinate multiple examinations simultaneously.
(c)
The insurer shall be given an opportunity to resolve such matters that arise as a result of market analysis to the satisfaction of the commissioner before any additional market conduct actions are taken against the insurer. If the insurer has modified such practice or procedure as a result of a market conduct action taken by the commissioner of another state, the commissioner shall accept appropriate documentation that the insurer has satisfactorily modified the practice or procedure and made similar modification to such practice or procedure in this state. The commissioner may require other or additional practice or procedure modifications as are necessary to achieve compliance with specific state laws or regulations, which differ substantially from those of the state conducted examination.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 72, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 233, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-71 - Market Conduct Surveillance Act › Section 27-71-9. - Market conduct surveillance personnel.

§ 27-71-9. Market conduct surveillance personnel.
(a)
Market conduct surveillance personnel shall be qualified by education, experience and, where applicable, professional designations. The commissioner may supplement the in-house market conduct surveillance staff with qualified outside professional assistance if he or she determines that such assistance is necessary.
(b)
Market conduct surveillance personnel have a conflict of interest, either directly or indirectly, if they are affiliated with the management, have been employed by, or own a pecuniary interest in the insurer subject to any examination under this chapter within the most recent five (5) years prior to the use of the personnel. This section shall not be construed to automatically preclude an individual from being:
(1)
A policyholder or claimant under an insurance policy;
(2)
A grantee of a mortgage or similar instrument on the individual’s residence from a regulated entity if done under customary terms and in the ordinary course of business;
(3)
An investment owner in shares of regulated diversified investment companies; or
(4)
A settlor or beneficiary of a “blind trust” into which any otherwise permissible holdings have been placed.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 72, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 233, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-71 - Market Conduct Surveillance Act › Section 27-71-10. - Immunity for market conduct surveillance personnel.

§ 27-71-10. Immunity for market conduct surveillance personnel.
(a)
No cause of action shall arise nor shall any liability be imposed against the commissioner, the commissioner’s authorized representatives, or an examiner appointed by the commissioner for any statements made or conduct performed in good faith while carrying out the provisions of this chapter.
(b)
No cause of action shall arise, nor shall any liability be imposed against any person for the act of communicating or delivering information or data to the commissioner or the commissioner’s authorized representative or examiner pursuant to an examination made under this chapter, if the act of communication or delivery was performed in good faith and without fraudulent intent or the intent to deceive.
(c)
A person identified in subsection (a) shall be entitled to an award of attorneys’ fees and costs if he or she is the prevailing party in a civil cause of action for libel, slander, or any other relevant tort arising out of activities in carrying out the provisions of this chapter and the party bringing the action was not substantially justified in doing so. For purposes of this section, a proceeding is “substantially justified” if it had a reasonable basis in law or fact at the time that it was initiated.
(d)
This section does not abrogate or modify in any way any common law or statutory privilege or immunity heretofore enjoyed by any person identified in subsection (a).
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 72, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 233, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 27 - Insurance › Chapter 27-71 - Market Conduct Surveillance Act › Section 27-71-11. - Fines and penalties.

§ 27-71-11. Fines and penalties.
(a)
Fines and penalties levied pursuant to this chapter or other provisions of the general laws shall be consistent, reasonable, and justified.
(b)
The commissioner shall take into consideration actions taken by insurers that maintain membership in best-practice organizations that exist to promote high ethical standards of conduct in the marketplace, and insurers that self-assess, self-report, and remediate problems detected to mitigate fines levied pursuant to this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 72, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 233, § 1.