The bill amends the Rhode Island Works Program to enhance eligibility requirements and support for families seeking cash assistance. Key changes include allowing lawful permanent residents to receive benefits without a waiting period. The bill increases the monthly cash benefit to fifty percent (50%) of the federal poverty level for the corresponding family size, effective July 1, 2025. Additionally, it raises the child support pass-through to one hundred dollars ($100) for one child and two hundred dollars ($200) for more than one child.

The legislation specifies that the payment standard for cash assistance shall be no less than fifty percent (50%) of the poverty guideline for the comparable assistance unit size as determined by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for calendar year 2025, with annual adjustments thereafter.

The bill also includes provisions for families receiving cash assistance, ensuring that the first one hundred dollars ($100) for one child or the first two hundred dollars ($200) for more than one child of child support payments will be paid to the family in which the child resides.

This act will take effect on July 1, 2025.