New Laws Make Life Better for Rhode Island Seniors
Life for seniors in Rhode Island just got a bit better, thanks to three new statutes Governor Raimondo recently signed into law. AARP gives a good overview; here are the highlights:
- Age 62+ Accessory Family Dwelling Units: “This new law now allows anyone age 62 + to have an accessory dwelling unit in an owner occupied single family residence as reasonable accommodations, without having to obtain a special use permit from their city or town”. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) allow seniors to age in place, close to caregivers, and in multi-generational homes.
- Telemedicine: “This measure requires private health insurers to reimburse for telemedicine services — the remote delivery of health care services and clinical information using telecommunications technology through the use of the internet or wireless devices.” Telemedicine helps seniors overcome barriers to healthcare, allowing them to receive efficient care in their own home regardless of weather or mobility issues, and is an important support to family caregivers.
- Tax Break for Retirees on Pensions and Annuities: The state budget offers tax relief for retirees, allowing for “a state income tax exemption on the first $15,000 of income derived from all private and public sector pensions and annuities that are within the … cap of $80,000 and $100,000 that were set the previous year.”
Kudos to the AARP and their volunteers for advocating for these positive changes for older Rhode Islanders!