Bill inspired by Heather Abbott passes Senate Finance Committee

Newport native Heather Abbott is the inspiration for a new bill making its way through the State House.

The legislation would allow victims of terror attacks that take place outside of Rhode Island to be eligible for money from the state’s crime victim compensation fund.

The Senate Finance Committee unanimously passed the bill on Tuesday.

"I think it’s an important one that could help other Rhode Island families if they ever found themselves in this situation,” said Senate President Theresa Paiva-Weed.

After the 2013 Boston marathon bombings, a loop hole in the bill came to light when Abbott, who lost a leg in the attacks, applied for money. She was initially denied by then treasurer Gina Raimondo.

"It was because of the challenges that she faced in applying for victims compensation benefits that the treasurer, Seth Magaziner took this initiative,” said Paiva-Weed.

The wording of the law as it stands is confusing. It seems to only allow those injured in terror attacks in Rhode Island or out of the country to get compensation.

"We want to clarify it. We want to say that Rhode Islanders that are victims of terror attacks should be eligible for compensation no matter where the attack takes place,” said Magaziner.

The fund covers up to $25,000 for medical bills, loss of earnings and other costs.

Last year the state paid out more than a million dollars in claims.

"The best possible scenario for members of the general assembly is that we pass this legislation, we fix this loop hole in the law and no one ever has to use it,” said Paiva-Weed.

As for Abbott she was eventually approved for the money but has never cashed in on it. The fund is only to be used as a last resort when other money such as insurance has been maxed out.

The House passed the bill unanimously last month. It is expected to go to the full Senate for a vote next week.

(C) WLNE 2016