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RI S2621
Bill
Status
2/13/2026
Primary Sponsor
Thomas Paolino
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AI Summary
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Establishes a 3-year pilot Homelessness Beautification and Employment Program within the Executive Office of Housing, commencing July 1, 2026, and expiring July 1, 2029, unless extended by the General Assembly
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Provides voluntary, paid temporary employment at minimum wage or higher for individuals experiencing homelessness to perform litter removal, park cleanup, graffiti removal, landscaping, and similar public improvement projects
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Designed as low-barrier employment requiring no permanent address, prior work experience, or participation in law enforcement/encampment enforcement actions; participants must only be experiencing homelessness and authorized to work in the U.S.
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Includes worker protections such as workers' compensation coverage, safety training, and personal protective equipment, plus access to supportive services including job readiness training, ID document assistance, housing navigation, and behavioral health referrals
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Requires annual reporting to the Governor and legislative leaders by December 31 on participants served, work hours, wages paid, projects completed, and service referrals; funding through state appropriations and federal grants/private donations
Legislative Description
Creates a state-run pilot program in Rhode Island that provides paid, low-barrier employment to individuals experiencing homelessness for community beautification and cleanup projects while connecting participants to supportive services.
Human Services
Last Action
Introduced, referred to Senate Labor and Gaming
2/13/2026