Requires an appropriation of an additional five percent (5%) of the assessed value of all low-income housing as part of the payment in lieu of taxes program to the municipality where the property is located beginning in fiscal year 2026.
Provides $4 million to support after school and school vacation, summer learning workforce development programs for K-12 students with annual reports on status and programs.
Creates the Rhode Island baby bond trust to provide investment funds to children born to families with public health insurance or no insurance living in Rhode Island.
Provides the state would cover dialysis for the treatment of end stage renal disease ("ESRD") and kidney transplants for persons who do not qualify for full Medicaid due to their immigration status.
Establishes the RI ombud for special education who ensures school districts throughout the state meet the minimum standards required to comply with the individualized education programs for students with disabilities.
Repeals the required HIV testing for an individual convicted under chapter 34.1 of title 11 and allows the option for HIV testing for any person convicted under this chapter.
2) MAXIMUM CLASS SIZE ACT (Mandates 20 students per classroom for kindergarten through second grade. Exceptions for emergencies and temporary situations, not to exceed 3 days and mid-year enrollments.
Maddy summaryThis bill expands Rhode Island's public prekindergarten program to ensure free, high-quality education for all children ages three and four, with a goal of enrolling at least 70% of eligible children statewide. It creates a mixed-delivery system that combines state funding with existing federal Head Start programs and contracts with various providers, including local schools and licensed child care centers. A key provision requires that teachers and assistants in these programs receive wages comparable to public kindergarten staff to help recruit and retain qualified educators. The legislation also mandates regular reporting to state officials on progress toward universal access and outlines specific quality standards for curriculum, class sizes, and support for diverse student needs.
Allows municipalities participating in the state prekindergarten program to accept students from outside the municipality under certain conditions and establishes a lottery for enrollment in the program.
Amends several sections of chapter 24 of title 45, entitled "zoning ordinances," also known as the "Rhode Island zoning enabling act of 1991," with the intent of preserving neighborhood character and promoting smart growth.
