Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2996

Introduced
3/4/26  
Refer
3/4/26  
Report Pass
4/29/26  
Engrossed
5/7/26  

Caption

Creates three (3) new awards for Rhode Island National Guard members and would provide eligibility for the Rhode Island star for certain civilian government employees and military and civilian leaders of foreign governments.

Impact

Upon its passage, S2996 would amend the existing General Laws relating to decorations for military service, establishing new recognition criteria and eligibility for awards. This would formalize the process of awarding commendable service and potentially encourage greater participation and engagement from both military personnel and civilians involved in governmental service. The bill reinforces the state's commitment to recognizing service at various levels and within multiple contexts.

Summary

Bill S2996 proposes the addition of new awards to honor the exceptional service of members of the Rhode Island National Guard and recognizes contributions from certain civilian government employees and foreign military and civilian leaders. These new awards include the Rhode Island Legion of Merit, the Rhode Island State Partnership Program Ribbon, and the Rhode Island Funeral Honors Ribbon. Each of these awards is designed to acknowledge specific types of service, underlining the importance of dedication and contribution to the state and country.

Contention

While the bill outlines positive measures for recognition, it may face scrutiny regarding the criteria for receiving these awards, particularly concerning who qualifies as a civilian government employee and what constitutes 'outstanding service.' Some may argue that the distinctions could lead to inconsistencies or perceptions of favoritism in award distributions. Moreover, questions may arise about the funding or resources allocated for these new awards and whether they will distract from existing military honors and recognitions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0022

Reduces the time, from three (3) years to one year, required for a nonimmigrant foreign national student, who has resided in Rhode Island, to be eligible to pay the same in-state tuition as any other Rhode Island student.

RI H5745

Reduces the time, from three (3) years to six (6) months, required for a nonimmigrant foreign national student, who has resided in Rhode Island, to be eligible to pay the same in-state tuition as any other Rhode Island student.

RI S0428

Amends the pension benefits for both current and former Rhode Island state police members, and would extend the time period a member may serve in the Rhode Island state police.

RI H5999

Amends the pension benefits for both current and former Rhode Island state police members, and would extend the time period a member may serve in the Rhode Island state police.

RI H5239

HOUSE RESOLUTION PROCLAIMING JANUARY 30, 2025, TO BE "RHODE ISLAND FOOD INSECURITY AWARENESS DAY" IN THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

RI S0498

Exempts from taxation the non-commercial real and tangible personal property of Southside Community Land Trust, a Rhode Island domestic nonprofit corporation, located in Providence, Rhode Island.

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 H5291

Creates the Rhode Island Social Media Regulation act, which would not permit a Rhode Island resident who is a minor to be an account holder on a social media's platform unless the minor has the express consent of a parent or guardian.

RI S0929

Creates the Rhode Island Social Media Regulation act, which would not permit a Rhode Island resident who is a minor to be an account holder on a social media's platform unless the minor has the express consent of a parent or guardian.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.