Taxation and HealthSource Data (H 8191)

The importance of keeping personal tax information confidential is longstanding and well-known. This legislation would create an exception to allow HealthSource RI to get in touch with individuals who are uninsured so as to inform them about options for getting enrolled in a health insurance plan.

We offered two amendments regarding the data-sharing procedures contained in the bill. First, we noted that notice of the right to opt-out of this information sharing should be prominent. We also added that the bill must specify the safeguards that will be promulgated before the sharing information program is implemented so there is an opportunity for public input on the strength of the safeguards being implemented.