The bill amends Chapter 16-59 of the General Laws, specifically adding a new section 16-59-29, which addresses the issue of student access to academic transcripts. The insertion stipulates that institutions of higher education are prohibited from withholding a student's academic transcripts solely due to the student's failure to pay loans, fines, fees, tuition, or other expenses owed to the institution. However, it allows for the withholding of academic credits and grades for any course that has not been fully paid for, including tuition and mandatory course fees. This withholding is also applicable on a per-semester basis for courses taken in semesters where the student has outstanding payments.

The bill further clarifies that while transcripts cannot be withheld for unpaid debts, institutions are still permitted to withhold a student's diploma or degree under such circumstances. Additionally, the council is tasked with promulgating rules and regulations consistent with this new section. The bill would become effective immediately upon passage. The explanatory section of the bill reiterates that the purpose of the act is to prevent colleges and universities from using transcripts as leverage against students who owe money, while still allowing the withholding of academic credits, grades, diplomas, or degrees for unpaid expenses.