Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H5963

Introduced
2/28/25  

Caption

Allows the applicant for a land development project to utilize the administrative subdivision process established under 45-23-37 to request approval of a proposed subdivision of an oversized lot.

Impact

The potential impact of HB 5963 on state laws includes significant changes to current education funding statutes. If passed, the bill would modify the existing funding framework to create a needs-based model that prioritizes funding for those districts that require additional resources to meet educational standards. This transition could lead to a redistribution of funds across the state, benefiting schools that have historically been underfunded and enhancing educational opportunities for economically disadvantaged students.

Summary

House Bill 5963 focuses on reforming the educational funding system within the state, aiming to address disparities in funding between affluent and less affluent school districts. The bill proposes a new formula for the distribution of state education funds, which is designed to ensure that all students, regardless of their local property tax base, have access to the same quality of education. Proponents of the bill argue that this approach is necessary to achieve equity in education and improve outcomes for students in underfunded districts.

Contention

Despite the advocated benefits, HB 5963 has sparked debate among legislators and various stakeholders. Critics of the bill express concerns that the new funding formula may disproportionately affect wealthier districts, leading to a decrease in their funding and possibly undermining the quality of education available in these areas. Additionally, there are apprehensions regarding how the new formula would be implemented and the administrative burden it may place on school districts as they adjust to the changes in funding patterns.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H6179

Requires the Rhode Island housing authority to update the count of affordable housing stock in the town of Tiverton two (2) times per year.

RI H6180

Ensures that minimum egress requirements for conventional subdivisions in Tiverton apply equally to comprehensive permit applications and cannot be waived, modified, or reduced for such applications.

RI H6184

Permits Tiverton to require two parking space for each studio, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom low- or moderate-income housing units upon the determination that limited or no local public transportation or off-street parking availability near these units.

RI H6182

Requires any person who applies to rent or purchase a residence located in Town of Tiverton which qualifies as low and moderate income housing, shall require proof of Rhode Island residency or employment by a local, state or federal entity.

RI H6215

Requires the town of Tiverton to require a minimum number of affordable housing units if there is less than ten percent (10%) of affordable housing in the town.

RI H5692

Allows the operation of a home-based business, which meets criteria for home office IRS income tax deduction, without securing approval from the municipality with no storage of chemicals/park heavy equipment/not more than 10% of premises used for parking.

RI H5022

Increases the maximum state and municipal small purchase limits from $10,000 to $25,000 for construction projects and from $5,000 to $10,000 for all other state and municipal purchases.

RI H5371

Allows the towns of Burrillville and Glocester to publish notices in any newspaper located within their municipalities and would also allow publication in other designated digital or print platforms selected by their city or town councils.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.