The bill establishes the Warwick Public Schools Budget Commission to oversee the financial management of the Warwick school district during periods of financial distress. The commission will consist of five members: three designees from the mayor with the advice and consent of the city council, one designee from the Warwick superintendent of schools, and one designee from the chair of the Warwick school committee. The commission will have the authority to approve school budget appropriations, formulate annual budgets, implement financial planning, and maintain uniform budget guidelines, while also being subject to public records, ethics laws, and open meetings laws.

The commission will cease to exist upon the occurrence of two events: the approval of the fiscal year 2025-2026 Warwick school budget as recommended by the mayor and approved by the city council, and the adoption of a deficit reduction plan by the commission as approved by the auditor general.

The bill outlines specific powers and limitations of the commission, ensuring it cannot reject or alter collective bargaining agreements, hire or terminate school department personnel, or impact projects funded by bond proceeds. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining the welfare of the city and its citizens while providing a framework for addressing the financial challenges faced by the school district. The provisions of this chapter will take precedence over any conflicting laws or regulations, and members of the commission will be exempt from civil liability for actions taken in their official capacity. The act will take effect upon passage.