Veterans

SB 2184 removes the registration and plate transfer fee for vehicles displaying a Distinguished Service Cross license plate. This change directly affects veterans who have received the Distinguished Service Cross, the military's second-highest decoration for extraordinary heroism. The bill modifies the state's vehicle registration system by eliminating the standard fee that would otherwise apply when registering a vehicle or transferring this specific plate. This is a targeted administrative adjustment to reduce costs for eligible veterans using the special license plate.

SB 2420 allows Rhode Island National Guard members in good standing to use their state tuition assistance benefits for their dependents. Dependents enrolled in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) can receive tuition waivers for up to five courses per semester at any Rhode Island state college or university. The program is funded up to $100,000 annually per fiscal year, requires a one-year military service commitment for each 12 course credits used, and mandates that both the Guard member and dependent maintain good academic standing. Failure to meet service or academic requirements may trigger repayment of benefits.

SB 2141 increases the daily fee for jurors serving in Rhode Island's superior court from $25 to $50 per day, effective July 1, 2026. It directly affects all jurors summoned for grand or petit jury duty in superior court cases. The bill also allows jurors to voluntarily donate their daily fee to the Rhode Island Veterans Home Community Living Center, with donations deposited into the state general fund. The change takes effect upon passage, with annual funding to be appropriated by the General Assembly.