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Committee hears bill to bar health workers from asking patients’ immigration status
Summary
The House Health and Human Services Committee heard testimony for and against HB 6244, which would prohibit health‑care personnel from asking patients about immigration status. Supporters said the bill would reduce fear that deters care; some clinicians said knowing status can affect care coordination and insurance enrollment.
Chairwoman Donovan opened a hearing on House Bill 6244, which would prohibit health‑care personnel and facilities from asking patients about their immigration status.
Supporters led by Madeline McGungal of the ACLU of Rhode Island said the bill addresses a real barrier to care: immigrants sometimes avoid medical treatment for fear of immigration enforcement. "We don't think that anyone should have to choose between necessary medical care and keeping their families…
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