House Resolution Creating A Special Affirmative Action Legislative Task Force To Develop A Plan To Increase Diversity On Projects Covered By The State Prevailing Wage Rate Law (creates A Eleven (11) Member Affirmative Action Legislative Special Task Force To Study And Provide Recommendations To Increase Diversity On Projects Covered By The State Prevailing Wage Rate Law, And Who Would Report Back To The House Of Representatives)
Impact
If enacted, this bill would create significant changes within Rhode Island's legislative framework pertaining to workforce diversity, particularly in fields affected by the prevailing wage law. The task force would gather data, conduct interviews to identify barriers faced by minorities and women in apprenticeship programs, and suggest initiatives to foster greater inclusivity. Additionally, it will assess current practices and recommend the implementation of measures such as 'Best Value Contracting' that could favor firms demonstrating commitment to diversity.
Summary
House Bill H5935 proposes the establishment of a special legislative task force with the aim to enhance diversity on projects governed by the state's prevailing wage law. The bill emphasizes the need for strategic collaboration with the Rhode Island Department of Education to improve access and quality of career and technical education, particularly focusing on construction and manufacturing programs across all school districts. The task force is to be composed of various stakeholders, including representatives from community organizations and industry professionals, tasked with creating actionable recommendations to forge a more inclusive workforce.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding H5935 may arise from varying opinions on the need for such government interventions. Supporters argue that the task force can help identify and dismantle systemic barriers to entry in high-demand fields, which remain disproportionately represented by non-diverse groups. Conversely, critics could voice concerns regarding the effectiveness of government-led initiatives versus market-driven approaches. The balance between providing educational support and ensuring fair competition among contractors is expected to be a focal point of debate.
House Resolution Respectfully Requesting The Ri Department Of Labor And Training To Develop And Provide Recommendations For A Plan To Increase Statewide Diversity Among Workers Employed On Public Works Projects
To continue the Comite River Diversion Canal Task Force to study and make recommendations on the actions necessary to complete the Comite River Diversion Canal Project
HOUSE RESOLUTION CREATING A SPECIAL LEGISLATIVE COMMISSION TO STUDY AND PROVIDE RECOMMENDATIONS AND COMMENTS FOR HEALTHCARE LIABILITY REFORM (This resolution creates a 15 member special legislative commission to study and provide recommendations and comments for healthcare liability reform, and who would report back to the House by January 1, 2025, and expire on February 1, 2025.)
To continue the Comite River Diversion Canal Task Force for the purpose of studying and making recommendations on the actions necessary to complete the Comite River Diversion Canal Project
Joint Resolution Creating A Special Legislative Task Force To Improve The Long-term Outcomes And Reduce Recidivism Of Females Within The Criminal Justice Population (creates A 19 Member Task Force Whose Purpose It Would Be To Improve Outcomes And Reduce Recidivism Of Females In The Criminal Justice System, And Who Would Report Back By February 5, 2024, And Expire On April 5, 2024.)
Joint Resolution Creating A Special Legislative Task Force To Improve The Long-term Outcomes And Reduce Recidivism Of Females Within The Criminal Justice Population (creates A 19 Member Task Force Whose Purpose It Would Be To Improve Outcomes And Reduce Recidivism Of Females In The Criminal Justice System, And Who Would Report Back By February 5, 2024, And Expire On April 5, 2024.)