The bill amends the Rhode Island Works Program to enhance eligibility and benefits for cash assistance. A key change is the provision allowing individuals who have been admitted for lawful permanent residence to access benefits without a waiting period, provided they meet other eligibility criteria.

Effective July 1, 2025, the monthly cash benefit will be no less than fifty percent (50%) of the federal poverty guideline for the corresponding family size, as determined by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The bill also increases the child support pass-through amount to one hundred dollars ($100) for one child and two hundred dollars ($200) for families with more than one child.

Additionally, the legislation specifies that the first one hundred dollars ($100) of child support for one child or the first two hundred dollars ($200) for more than one child received in any month will be disregarded in the calculation of cash assistance.

The bill does not include provisions regarding exemptions from federal restrictions related to felony convictions for controlled substances, nor does it mention hardship exceptions to the time limit on cash assistance. Overall, these amendments aim to provide increased financial support to families in Rhode Island, particularly those with children, while streamlining the eligibility process for certain residents.