CHW Bill H8211

This summary was prepared by CHW Voices for Leadership & Advocacy, with support from CHWARI.

Overview of H8211: Community Health Workers (CHWs) in Rhode Island 

House Bill #H8211, recently introduced by Representative Kislak, relates to investment in Community Health Workers (CHWs) in Rhode Island. CHWs play a role in supporting community health by helping individuals access services, navigate systems, and address health-related needs.

This legislation presents an opportunity to consider how the CHW workforce can be supported and sustained across the state.

Why This Matters

Community Health Workers are members of the communities they serve and often act as a link between individuals and health and social service systems.They are critical in reducing health-care costs and relieving the PCP burden.

 Their work may include:

  • Connecting individuals to health and social services
  • Providing culturally responsive support
  • Assisting with care coordination
  • Addressing social and environmental factors that affect health

CHWs are part of broader efforts to improve health outcomes and reduce disparities. Their role may also contribute to system efficiency, including reducing strain on primary care services.

What H8211 Addresses

  • H8211 focuses on several areas related to the CHW workforce:
    • Supporting and strengthening the CHW workforce
    • Expanding approaches to health equity through community-based strategies
    • Encouraging investment in prevention and care coordination
    • Recognizing CHWs as contributors within health systems and communities

Opportunities for Engagement

Individuals interested in this legislation may choose to learn more or share their perspectives in a variety of ways:

  1. Contacting Legislators
    • Residents can reach out to their elected officials by phone or email to share their views on H8211.
  2. Sharing Information
    • Information about the bill can be shared with colleagues, community members, or through social media to raise awareness.
  3. Providing Testimony
    • If the bill is scheduled for a hearing, individuals may have the opportunity to provide written or in-person testimony about their experiences or perspectives related to CHWs.
  4. Staying Informed

Templates for Taking Action

1. Call Your Legislator

Sample script (customizable):
 “Hi, my name is [Your Name], and I’m a [Community Health Worker/community member] from [City/Town]. I’m calling to share my perspective on H8211. I [support/oppose/have concerns about] this bill because [brief reason]. I hope [Legislator’s Name] will consider this perspective when making a decision. Thank you.”

2. Email Your Legislator

Subject Line Options:

  • H8211 – Perspective from a Constituent
  • H8211 – Request for Consideration
  • H8211 – [Support/Opposition]

Sample email (customizable):
Dear [Legislator’s Name],

I am writing as a [Community Health Worker/community member] to share my perspective on H8211. I [support/oppose/have concerns about] this bill because [brief explanation—e.g., impact on community health, workforce, costs, or implementation].

I appreciate your time and consideration as you review this legislation and its potential impact on Rhode Island communities.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

3. Share Information & Perspectives

  • Share your perspective on social media
  • Talk with colleagues, neighbors, and community members
  • Encourage others to learn about the bill and form their own opinions

Sample post (customizable):
 H8211 addresses Community Health Workers in Rhode Island. I [support/oppose/am learning more about] this bill because [reason]. Stay informed and consider reaching out to your legislator to share your perspective. #CHWsinRI #RIHealthEquity #CHWs

4. Prepare to Testify

If the bill is scheduled for a hearing, individuals may provide testimony.

  • Prepare a short statement (under 3 minutes)
  • Share your experience, perspective, or concerns related to CHWs or the bill
  • Written testimony may also be submitted by 3 pm the day of the hearing to the House of Finance email at HouseFinance@rilegislature.gov. 

To stay informed about hearings and updates:

Find Your Legislator

Visit: https://vote.sos.ri.gov to find and contact your elected officials or scan the QR code below