This bill proposes to increase the minimum veterans' property tax exemption from $1,000 to $6,000 for municipal taxes. It directly affects veterans who own taxable property, allowing them to deduct a larger portion of their property value from their tax bill. The change would apply to local property taxes rather than state taxes, reducing the amount of tax owed by eligible veterans. The measure is currently under review by the Senate Housing and Municipal Government committee and has been held for further study.
This bill is a House resolution that formally celebrates the 107th anniversary of the American Legion on March 15, 2026. It recognizes the organization's history and contributions to veterans' rights, including its role in establishing the Veterans Administration and drafting the GI Bill. The resolution thanks the American Legion for its ongoing work supporting veterans and maintaining national security. It directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to the American Legion's National Commander.
SB 2694 prevents state fees for home modifications required to accommodate a veteran's disability, directly benefiting disabled veterans needing accessibility changes. The bill amends the state building code to prohibit local governments or agencies from charging fees for these specific modifications, such as installing ramps or grab bars. It applies to modifications mandated by a veteran's disability, ensuring no additional costs for essential accessibility improvements. The bill was introduced in February 2026 and referred to the Senate Housing and Municipal Government committee, with no further action taken yet.
This Senate Resolution (SR 2754) urges the U.S. Congress to pass the Major Richard Star Act (H.R. 2102/S. 1032). It addresses a policy that forces veterans with less than 20 years of service and a disability rating below 50% to have their retirement pay reduced dollar-for-dollar by their VA disability benefits. The resolution highlights that approximately 50,000 veterans are affected by this rule, which averages a $1,900 monthly offset, and seeks to eliminate this restriction to ensure medically retired veterans receive full retirement and disability benefits.
HB 7152 increases the property tax exemption for veterans from $1,000 to $6,000 specifically for municipal taxes. This directly affects veterans who own property in municipalities covered by this bill. The key provision raises the exemption amount, reducing the taxable value of their primary residence. The bill is currently pending in the House Municipal Government & Housing committee after being referred on January 16, 2026.
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 2414 allows disabled veteran license plates to be transferred to a veteran's spouse under two conditions: when the veteran can no longer operate a vehicle (with proof), or upon the veteran's death (until the spouse remarries). It also permits the direct issuance of these plates to an eligible veteran's spouse. The bill modifies existing rules to expand plate transfers and issuance, requiring documentation from the Veterans' Administration to verify eligibility. This affects disabled veterans and their spouses who qualify for the plate exemption under current disability criteria.
