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RI H7453

Joint Resolution

Status

Introduced

1/30/2026

Primary Sponsor

Mary Messier

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Origin

House of Representatives

2026 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Amends Article XII of the Rhode Island Constitution to establish a "fundamental right to a public education" and guarantee each child an "equitable, adequate and meaningful education"

  • Replaces the existing perpetual school fund provision with a judicial enforcement mechanism, effective January 1, 2027

  • Allows any person or entity injured by noncompliance to bring action in Superior Court for declaratory and injunctive relief

  • Requires the proposed constitutional amendment be submitted to voters at the next statewide general election for approval or rejection

  • Introduced January 30, 2026 by Representatives Messier, Kislak, Cruz, and seven other co-sponsors; referred to House State Government & Elections Committee

Legislative Description

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE, PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION -- RIGHT TO AN ADEQUATE EDUCATION (Amends the constitution to guarantee Rhode Island residents with equal opportunity to receive an education that is adequate, equitable and meaningful and provides judicial enforcement of this provision.)

Last Action

Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration (03/19/2026)

3/13/2026

Committee Referrals

State Government & Elections1/30/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available