Rhode Island House Bill H7915

Rhode Island 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/22
• Refer: 3/7/22

Caption

The Rhode Island Quality Enhancement In Afterschool And Out-of-school Time Act

Impact

The bill establishes a framework for the Rhode Island Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to oversee the competitive allocation of funds to eligible organizations, which may include non-profits, local governments, and educational institutions. A significant focus of the funding will be to support programs that assist low-income families, youth with disabilities, and those facing language barriers, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the necessary resources. This could lead to improved educational performance and increased engagement from these underserved communities.

Summary

House Bill 7915, also known as the Rhode Island Quality Enhancement in Afterschool and Out-of-School Time Act, aims to allocate funding to support various educational and developmental programs for students from kindergarten through grade twelve. The bill proposes a minimum funding of two million dollars annually to enhance the quality of afterschool programs, summer learning opportunities, and workforce development initiatives. This funding is designed to improve educational outcomes and provide a diverse range of supportive services to students in need.

Contention

Discussions surrounding Bill H7915 indicate potential points of contention regarding funding priorities and program accessibility. Supporters advocate for the necessity of this funding, emphasizing the importance of high-quality afterschool programs in providing educational support and engaging youth. However, critics may raise concerns about the distribution of funds and whether they adequately reach the most underserved communities, as well as the sustainability of such funding in the long term, which could impact the effectiveness of the programs initiated under this legislation.