The bill amends Section 29-6-2 of the General Laws in Chapter 29-6, titled "State Aid to Libraries," to establish a fixed funding mechanism for public library services in fiscal year 2026. It includes several findings that emphasize the importance of public libraries in promoting education, cultural enrichment, and community support, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill asserts that it is the responsibility of government at all levels to provide adequate financial support for public libraries.

Specifically, the bill stipulates that for fiscal year 2026, the state's contribution to local public library services will be set at twenty-five percent (25%) of the amount appropriated and expended by each city or town in the second preceding fiscal year from local tax revenues and from the public library's private endowment that supplements the municipal appropriation for public library services. This act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5400: 29-6-2