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RI H8336

Bill

Status

Introduced

3/20/2026

Primary Sponsor

Joseph McNamara

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Origin

House of Representatives

2026 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Converts the Rhode Island Hope Scholarship from a temporary pilot program (originally funded July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2030) into a permanent, continuing scholarship program at Rhode Island College

  • Removes the sunset provision that would have ended funding in 2030 without further legislative action

  • Maintains the program's goal of increasing enrollment and on-time completion of four-year degrees and certificates at Rhode Island College, with emphasis on high-need fields such as nursing, pre-K through grade 12 education, and the trades

  • Continues existing reporting requirements, requiring Rhode Island College to submit biannual reports (November 10 and May 10) on student eligibility, financial aid, tuition costs, and total program costs to state budget and education officials

  • Models the permanent program structure on the existing Rhode Island Promise Scholarship program at the Community College of Rhode Island

Legislative Description

Converts the Rhode Island Hope Scholarship Pilot Program Act into a continuing scholarship program at Rhode Island College, similar to the Rhode Island Promise Scholarship at the Community College of Rhode Island.

Education

Last Action

Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration (04/30/2026)

4/24/2026

Committee Referrals

Finance3/20/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available