Rhode Island Senate Bill S0752

Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/25
• Refer: 3/7/25

Caption

Creates RI opportunity for employee ownership, worker gets notice within seven days of sale of business.

Impact

The legislation is expected to have a positive impact on local economies by supporting small businesses. It provides a structured process for employee ownership, which can lead to increased job security and investment in the workforce. By allowing workers to participate in ownership, the bill aims to preserve jobs and ensure that the profits generated by the business are shared among those who contribute to its success. Furthermore, the bill exempts owners from capital gains taxes on sales under one million dollars, making business sales to employee groups more financially appealing.

Summary

S0752, titled 'The Rhode Island Opportunity for Employee Ownership Act', aims to facilitate the transition of businesses into employee-owned entities. The bill mandates that if a qualified business owner decides to sell their business or a significant portion of it (at least 51%), they must provide written notice to all employees within seven days. This notification process is crucial as it opens up the opportunity for employees to form a Qualified Employee Group (QEG) to potentially purchase the business, thereby promoting worker ownership and participation in business operations.

Contention

Despite its potential benefits, S0752 could raise concerns regarding the complexities of ownership transitions and the obligations placed on business owners. Critics may argue that requiring notification and the establishment of a QEG could complicate the sale process. Additionally, the restriction on governance by non-employee parties post-sale could be seen as a limitation on business flexibility, especially for owners wishing to retain some degree of influence or external investment.