The bill amends the Rhode Island Works Program to enhance eligibility and support for families seeking cash assistance. Key changes include the addition of language that clarifies eligibility requirements, specifically stating that lawful permanent residents will not be subject to a waiting period for benefits for which they are otherwise eligible.

The bill establishes a new payment standard for cash assistance, ensuring it is set at no less than fifty percent (50%) of the federal poverty guideline for the corresponding family size, effective July 1, 2025. Thereafter, the payment standard will be adjusted annually in July to maintain this threshold.

Further amendments increase the child support pass-through amount, allowing families to retain the first $100 for one child or $200 for multiple children from child support payments collected by the Department of Human Services.

The bill also includes provisions for cash assistance that specify the payment standard for assistance units and outlines the necessary requirements and conditions for eligibility. All adjustments and provisions outlined in the bill are set to take effect on July 1, 2025.