Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2185

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

Caption

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

Impact

The act amends Chapter 31-3 of the General Laws relating to the registration of vehicles in Rhode Island. The creation of these special plates entails a forty-dollar issuance surcharge, which will be split between the general fund and Real Access Motivates Progress to support its accessibility programs. This funding mechanism is designed to ensure that some of the financial burden for these programs is offset by those who choose to purchase the special plates, potentially leading to greater community investment in accessibility efforts.

Summary

Bill S2185 proposes the creation of a special motor vehicle registration plate dedicated to the nonprofit organization Real Access Motivates Progress. This bill aims to enhance visibility and support for accessibility initiatives led by the organization, which is a recognized 501(c)(3) charity. The new plates will not only serve as a means for individuals to show their support for the nonprofit but will also contribute to its funding through associated surcharges.

Contention

While the bill appears to have substantial support as a beneficial initiative for promoting charity work, points of contention may arise around the balance of state resources used for these special plate programs versus their financial sustainability. Additionally, there may be discussions regarding the adequacy of oversight concerning the allocation of funds raised through the plate sales, as the bill requires Real Access Motivates Progress to submit annual accounting reports before funds are distributed. This ensures accountability but may also raise questions about administrative burdens for the nonprofit.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0592

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

RI H6307

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

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 S0074

Creates a special license plate for the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council, Inc. that would support the Blackstone River Valley Environmental Clean-up and Education Fund.

RI H5050

Creates a special license plate for the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council, Inc. that would support the Blackstone River Valley Environmental Clean-up and Education Fund.

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 H5376

Allows for a special RI license plate to raise awareness for colon cancer. The plate would be designed by the partnership to reduce cancer in RI. The fees for the plate would be divided equally between the general fund and the partnership not-for-profit.

RI S1061

Allows for a special RI license plate to raise awareness for colon cancer. The plate would be designed by the partnership to reduce cancer in RI. The fees for the plate would be divided equally between the general fund and the partnership not-for-profit.

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.

Similar Bills

NV SB315

Authorizes the Department of Transportation to enter into a progressive design-build contract for a certain project. (BDR S-626)

RI H7229

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

RI H6307

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

RI S0592

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

RI H6148

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

TX HB881

Relating to a progressive disciplinary matrix for police officer misconduct in certain municipalities.

RI S0155

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

NJ S4073

Requires health insurance and Medicaid coverage for testing and treatments to slow progression of Alzheimer's disease and related disorders.