Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7690

Introduced
2/11/26  

Caption

Amends the Rhode Island works program to increase the cash support pass-through to $100 for one child and $200 for more than one child.

Impact

The amendment to the Rhode Island Works Program is expected to have significant implications for families who depend on child support as a source of income. By increasing the pass-through amount, the bill seeks to alleviate some of the financial burdens faced by low-income families. This enhanced support could potentially lead to improved well-being for children living in these households, as it allows families to retain more of the financial resources necessary to meet their needs. The effective date of this law is set for July 1, 2026, giving time for any necessary adjustments within the state's human services framework.

Summary

House Bill H7690 aims to amend the Rhode Island Works Program by increasing the cash support pass-through for child support payments. Specifically, for families receiving cash assistance, the bill stipulates that $100 per month for one child and $200 for families with more than one child shall be passed through to the family from child support payments made by noncustodial parents. This change is aimed at enhancing financial support for families relying on assistance, directly addressing the economic needs of vulnerable populations within the state.

Contention

As with many amendments to social support legislation, there may be points of contention regarding the implementation and sustainability of this increased financial aid. Advocates for low-income families may argue for even higher pass-through amounts, suggesting that the current figures are still insufficient in addressing the needs of families with children. On the other hand, there could be concerns about the fiscal impact on the state budget and how these changes will be financed. These discussions highlight the broader debates surrounding public assistance programs and their capacity to support families effectively.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5321

Establishes the Rhode Island Child Care for All Act which would provide high quality and affordable child care to families throughout the state.

RI H5281

Creates the Rhode Island Childcare Assistance Program that governs both family eligibility for the state’s childcare subsidy program and expands eligibility for the program to meet the federal eligibility benchmark.

RI S0240

Creates the Rhode Island Childcare Assistance Program that governs both family eligibility for the state’s childcare subsidy program and expands eligibility for the program to meet the federal eligibility benchmark.

RI H5992

Amends the Rhode Island works program to allow lawful permanent residents to receive benefits without a waiting period.

RI S0658

Amends the Rhode Island works program to allow lawful permanent residents to receive benefits without a waiting period.

RI S0761

This pilot program would create a $3,000 trust for each Rhode Island child ages zero to one year born to a family enrolled in the Rhode Island Works Program (“RI Works”) during the preceding calendar year.

RI H6071

This pilot program would create a $3,000 trust for each Rhode Island child ages zero to one year born to a family enrolled in the Rhode Island Works Program (“RI Works”) during the preceding calendar year.

RI S0062

Removes the requirement that families consent to, and cooperate with the department of human services in establishing paternity and enforcing child and medical support orders as a condition of eligibility for child care assistance.

RI H5197

Removes the requirement that families consent to, and cooperate with the department of human services in establishing paternity and enforcing child and medical support orders as a condition of eligibility for child care assistance.

RI H6066

Increases the taxable wage base for TDI claims from $38,000 to $100,000 or the annual earnings needed by an individual to qualify for the maximum weekly benefit amount and the maximum duration under chapters 39 through 41 of this title.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.