The bill proposes the creation of a new chapter, Chapter 114, titled "Building Opportunities in Out-of-School Time" within Title 16 of the General Laws, which pertains to education. The purpose of this chapter is to allocate funding for comprehensive afterschool, school vacation, summer learning, and workforce development programs for students in grades K-12, with the aim of addressing chronic absenteeism. The bill specifies that a minimum of four million dollars ($4,000,000) should be allocated in the fiscal year 2024-2025 budget for high-quality out-of-school time (OST) programs and instructors, professional development for educators, workforce development, and a pipeline for youth development professionals.

The bill outlines the process for distributing the funds, which includes a competitive request for proposals managed by the Rhode Island afterschool network through their fiscal sponsor, the Rhode Island Foundation. Funding eligibility is limited to programs that adhere to Rhode Island afterschool quality standards and indicators. Priority for funding will be given to programs that support equity, diversity, inclusion, accessibility, and cater to low-income families, youth with disabilities, multi-language learners, and those with limited access to services. The bill also requires the Rhode Island afterschool network to consult with key stakeholders and mandates an annual report to the general assembly and the governor on the status and progress of the programs. The act will take effect upon passage.