The bill amends Section 16-60-2 of the General Laws in Chapter 16-60, which pertains to the Council on Elementary and Secondary Education in Rhode Island. The amendment includes changes to the appointment of board members, the establishment of a student advisory council, and the procedures for student representation and participation. Notably, the bill specifies that the student advisory council must meet at least quarterly, an insertion that replaces the previous vague requirement to meet "from time to time." Additionally, the chairperson of the student advisory council, elected by the council members, will now serve as a voting member of the Council on Elementary and Secondary Education, changing their status from nonvoting to voting.

The bill also includes a provision that exempts students under the age of eighteen from the senate advise and consent requirements, facilitating their participation in the council without the need for such formal approval. The act is set to take effect upon passage, indicating that these changes will be implemented immediately once the bill is enacted. The explanation provided by the Legislative Council clarifies that the purpose of the act is to ensure the student advisory council meets regularly and that the chairperson has voting rights equal to adult members, while also streamlining the process for underage student participation.

Statutes affected:
484: 16-60-2