Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S0404

Introduced
2/26/25  

Caption

Requires the PUC to make public notification of any changes in eligibility or production of energy, and would direct the commission to promulgate rules and regulations to allow and facilitate the prompt public disclosure of this information.

Impact

The passage of S0404 is expected to have a significant impact on the state's education system. By directing additional resources to the most needy schools, the bill seeks to level the playing field for students who may lack access to adequate educational resources. This could lead to better educational outcomes and improved safety in schools, aligning with broader educational reform efforts. Additionally, the bill may require schools to report on their safety protocols, enhancing accountability and transparency in how schools manage safety issues.

Summary

S0404 aims to enhance funding for education and improve school safety measures across the state. The bill introduces provisions that mandate increased financial support for underfunded schools, ensuring equitable access to educational resources for all students. It also emphasizes the necessity of implementing school safety protocols, which may include mental health resources and emergency preparedness training. The legislation reflects a growing recognition of the importance of both educational funding and the safety of students in learning environments.

Contention

Despite its intentions, S0404 has faced criticism from various stakeholders. Some lawmakers express concerns over the financial implications of the increased funding requirements, arguing that the state may struggle to provide the necessary resources without raising taxes or cutting funding from other essential programs. Furthermore, there is debate over the efficacy of mandated safety measures, with some arguing that local districts should have the flexibility to create solutions that best fit their specific needs rather than adhere to blanket mandates from the state.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H7814

Requires the PUC to make public notification of any changes in eligibility or production of energy, and would direct the commission to promulgate rules and regulations to allow and facilitate the prompt public disclosure of this information.

RI S2509

Requires the PUC to make public notification of any changes in eligibility or production of energy, and would direct the commission to promulgate rules and regulations to allow and facilitate the prompt public disclosure of this information.

RI H7593

Directs the department of education to develop and adopt regulations for energy capable school buildings.

RI S2168

Directs the department of education to develop and adopt regulations for energy capable school buildings.

RI H7430

Restores several provisions of the Renewable Energy Standards chapter which were repealed in 2022.

RI H7429

Changes the requirements of quarterly meetings of the board to monthly meetings. The chairperson of the board would be the commissioner or acting commissioner of the office of energy resources.

RI H7285

Establishes thermal energy networks network infrastructure by any public utility company that provides electric/natural gas distribution to maximize cost-effective investments deemed in the public interest by the public utilities commission (PUC).

RI S2185

Requires information on the public's rights and privileges of the shore to be included in disclosure forms for the sale of vacant land or real property.

RI H7603

Repeals the "Residential Solar Energy Disclosure and Homeowners Bill of Rights Act." Amends title 5 "Businesses and Professions" to include a new chapter 93, an amended "Residential Solar Energy Disclosure and Homeowners Bill of Rights Act."

RI S2801

Repeals the "Residential Solar Energy Disclosure and Homeowners Bill of Rights Act." Amends title 5 "Businesses and Professions" to include a new chapter 93, an amended "Residential Solar Energy Disclosure and Homeowners Bill of Rights Act."

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