Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S0616

Introduced

3/6/25

Refer

3/6/25

Caption

Defines public-private partnerships and provide the framework to encourage the use of public-private partnerships for proposals for state purchases.

Impact

The bill is positioned to transform how state agencies engage with non-governmental entities when it comes to large-scale projects. By enabling and promoting PPP agreements, S0616 seeks to streamline public works projects and enhance the efficiency of state purchasing processes. The incorporation of a competitive procurement process ensures that such contracts are awarded fairly, maintaining accountability and oversight, while also aiming to ensure ‘value for money’—a critical factor in assessing the appropriateness of using PPPs as a delivery method.

Summary

S0616 aims to amend the state laws surrounding public property and state purchases by establishing a clear framework for public-private partnerships (PPPs). The bill defines the parameters of such partnerships, outlining the responsibilities, risks, and expectations of involved parties. A significant aspect of the legislation is the provision that mandates the chief purchasing officer to create rules promoting and encouraging the use of PPP agreements by July 1, 2026. These rules are expected to facilitate a structured approach for state agencies seeking to implement such partnerships in their procurement processes.

Contention

One potential area of contention surrounding S0616 relates to the balance of power and control between public agencies and private partners. Critics may argue that an emphasis on public-private collaboration could lead to diminished oversight and accountability. There is a concern that profit-driven motives of private partners might undermine public interest if not carefully regulated. The bill includes measures for responsibility and oversight; however, the efficacy of these measures and their implementation will ultimately determine the success of the partnerships and the public's trust in such agreements.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S3122

Establishes a seven (7) member public-private partnership infrastructure oversight commission to approve all requests for proposals submitted for public-private partnership construction of qualified facilities.

RI H8344

RI S0803

Public-private Partnership Infrastructure Program

RI S2867

Implements a grant program to fund public or private partnerships that provide opportunities for healthcare paraprofessionals to pursue higher education degrees and health professional licensure.

RI H8078

Implements a grant program to fund public or private partnerships that provide opportunities for healthcare paraprofessionals to pursue higher education degrees and health professional licensure.

RI H5964

Day Care Programs State Purchases

RI S0646

Privately Owned And Operated Detention Facilities

RI H8012

Makes all documents and information related to any bid proposal relative to state purchases public records and available for inspection and review by any person seeking the records under chapter 2 of title 38 after the opening of the bids.

RI S2053

Establishes a new educational program that allows students to enroll public and private schools of their choice.

RI H8348

Provides that vendors, parent corporations, subsidiaries, affiliates, or subcontractors of the state are prohibited from bidding on requests for proposals if the person or entity has a conflict of interest as defined by the code of ethics.

Similar Bills

CA AB359

Pupil instruction: dual enrollment: College and Career Access Pathways partnerships.

AZ SB1670

Public-private partnership contracts

PA HB975

Providing for employee child-care public private partnership; establishing the Employee Child-Care Public Private Partnership Fund and the employee child-care public private partnership tax credit; imposing duties on the Department of Human Services; and imposing a penalty.