Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2176

Introduced
1/16/26  
Refer
1/16/26  
Report Pass
5/14/26  
Engrossed
5/21/26  

Caption

Creates a special motor vehicle registration plate for the Friends of the Historic Narragansett Towers.

Impact

The bill aims to amend Chapter 31-3 related to vehicle registration in Rhode Island, establishing a framework for the issuance of these special plates. Along with the standard registration fees, a $40 issuance surcharge will be applied, with $20 directed to the general fund and the remaining $20 allocated to the nonprofit for its programs. This dual allocation is designed to ensure both state revenue and support for local cultural efforts, potentially enriching the community's engagement with its historical landmarks.

Summary

S2176 introduces a new category of motor vehicle registration plates designated for the Friends of the Historic Narragansett Towers. The initiative seeks to provide a unique identifier for vehicles associated with this nonprofit organization, which is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the Towers located in Rhode Island. The plates will be produced by the division of motor vehicles and are intended to raise awareness and support for the Towers through cultural and performing arts initiatives.

Contention

Notable discussions around the bill may revolve around the implications of such registrations on local resources and state administrative processes. While supporters highlight the benefit of promoting cultural heritage and providing additional funding for programs through the surcharge, critics might express concerns about the redirection of funds from state resources. Furthermore, there could be debates regarding the effectiveness and necessity of introducing specialized plates when motor vehicle regulations already exist.

Administrative_provisions

The bill includes stipulations regarding the minimum prepaid orders required before plate production and mandates the Friends of the Historic Narragansett Towers to submit annual accounting reports for the distribution of funds. These provisions are intended to ensure accountability and transparency in how the financial contributions from the special plates are utilized for community benefit.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5048

Creates special motor vehicle registration plates for vehicles based on the not-for-profit entity Rhode Island Fire Chiefs Honor Flight Hub.

RI H6148

Empowers the division of motor vehicles to make available special motor vehicle registration plates for the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association.

RI S0155

Empowers the division of motor vehicles to make available special motor vehicle registration plates for the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association.

RI H6124

Allows the division of motor vehicles to make special motor vehicle registration plates for the not-for-profit entity Cranston Cares provided they meet the minimum order requirements.

RI H6137

Creates a special registration plate for the private passenger motor vehicle for former fire chief of the Hopkins Hill Fire District, Frank M. Brown, Jr.

RI H5098

Creates a new motor vehicle registration for "forestry vehicles."

RI S0932

Repeals a provision of the minimum prepaid special motor vehicle registration plate orders law that was set to expire on December 31, 2025.

RI H6399

Repeals a provision of the minimum prepaid special motor vehicle registration plate orders law that was set to expire on December 31, 2025.

RI S0679

RELATING TO MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES -- REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES

RI S0592

Creates a special license plate for the charity Real Access Motivates Progress, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

Similar Bills

RI S1110

Increases the landing fee for the town of Narragansett from fifty cents ($.50) to one dollar ($1.00).

RI H6347

Increases the landing fee for the town of Narragansett from fifty cents ($.50) to one dollar ($1.00).

RI H7571

Creates a special motor vehicle registration plate for the Friends of the Historic Narragansett Towers.

RI H5539

HOUSE RESOLUTION WELCOMING SCOUTING AMERICA, NARRAGANSETT COUNCIL, TO THE RHODE ISLAND STATE HOUSE AND JOYFULLY CELEBRATING SCOUTING MONTH IN FEBRUARY

RI S0368

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RI S3140

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RI H8344

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