Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7691

Introduced
2/11/26  

Caption

Requires that the state's share to public libraries be fixed at twenty-five percent (25%) of the amount appropriated by the city or town in their budgets for fiscal year 2027.

Impact

If passed, H7691 would impact the General Laws in Chapter 29-6, which governs state aid to libraries. By requiring a guaranteed percentage from the state relative to previous local budget allocations, the bill aims to bolster the funding stability for public library services. This amendment reflects a broader commitment to foster educational resources and support lifelong learning opportunities for citizens throughout the state.

Summary

House Bill H7691 is a legislative proposal focusing on the allocation of state funding to local public libraries in Rhode Island. Specifically, the bill mandates that the state's contribution to these libraries is fixed at twenty-five percent (25%) of the funding appropriated by each city or town for fiscal year 2027. This measure is intended to ensure stable financial support for public libraries, which are viewed as vital to the educational and cultural enrichment of communities. The bill acknowledges the critical role that libraries play, particularly highlighted by their innovative responses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Contention

The bill, however, may face scrutiny and debate regarding its implications on local budgetary autonomy and priorities. Critics could argue that a fixed percentage could disadvantage municipalities that are already facing budget constraints, limiting their flexibility to allocate funds according to local needs. Furthermore, the reliance on state funding may prompt discussions about long-term sustainability and the potential for limited state resources in future fiscal years, raising concerns over the adequacy of library support in the face of evolving community demands.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5400

Requires that the state's share to public libraries be fixed at twenty-five percent (25%) of the amount appropriated by the city or town in their budgets for fiscal year 2026.

RI S0453

Requires that the state's share to public libraries be fixed at twenty-five percent (25%) of the amount appropriated by the city or town in their budgets for fiscal year 2026.

RI H5760

Raises the earned-income tax credit from twenty percent (20%) to thirty percent (30%) for the tax years 2026 and beyond.

RI H5966

Allows city of Providence to levy a tax in fiscal year 2026, in an amount not to exceed seven percent (7%) in excess of the total amount levied and certified by that city for its previous fiscal year.

RI H5054

Requires that the state and all municipalities that construct buildings after January 1, 2026, budget for maintenance on a yearly basis, at least five-tenths percent (0.5%) of the total construction cost.

RI S1128

Authorizes the city of Woonsocket to levy a tax for the 2026 fiscal year at a rate of five and one-half percent (5.5%) in excess of the amount levied and certified by the city for the prior year.

RI H6386

Authorizes the city of Woonsocket to levy a tax for its fiscal year at a rate of five and one-half percent (5.5%) in excess of the amount levied and certified by the city for the prior year.

RI H5526

Appropriates the sum of five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000) to fund the Thundermist family medicine residency program during fiscal year 2026 and every fiscal year thereafter.

RI S0339

Appropriates the sum of five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000) to fund the Thundermist family medicine residency program during fiscal year 2026 and every fiscal year thereafter.

RI S0183

Gradually phases in modifications to federal adjusted gross income over a four (4) year period for social security income, from twenty-five percent (25%) up to one hundred percent (100%), beginning on or after January 1, 2026.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.