An Act Expanding Student Support and Workforce Opportunity in Rhode Island

Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the State of Rhode Island that the state shall establish a targeted Student Support and Opportunity Initiative to provide grant funding to local school districts and public community colleges for high-impact tutoring in reading, math, and career readiness; expanded school-based and campus mental health counseling; and workforce-linked scholarships for students pursuing certificates, associate degrees, and other in-demand training aligned with Rhode Island employers. Priority shall be given to low- and middle-income working families, students with demonstrated academic need, and programs that partner with local businesses, healthcare providers, and public institutions, with the department of education and the office of the postsecondary commissioner directed to report annually on student participation, completion, and employment outcomes.