JOINT RESOLUTION MAKING AN APPROPRIATION OF $100,000 FOR THE RHODE ISLAND COMMISSION ON PREJUDICE AND BIAS

This bill is a funding resolution appropriating $100,000 from the state treasury for the Rhode Island Commission on Prejudice and Bias for fiscal year 2025-2026. The commission, established in 1981, studies prejudice and bias, provides mandatory hate crime training for law enforcement, and assists victims of hate crimes. The resolution addresses declining federal and state grant funding that has hindered the commission's ability to fulfill its statutory duties. The funds will be distributed through the RI Coalition Against Domestic Violence, the commission's fiscal agent. This is a procedural funding measure, not a policy change.