The proposed bill introduces a new chapter, CHAPTER 117, titled "Building Opportunities in Out-of-School Time," to Title 16 of the General Laws concerning education. The primary aim of this chapter is to provide funding to support comprehensive and effective afterschool, school vacation, summer learning, and workforce development programs for students in grades kindergarten through twelve (K-12). It emphasizes the importance of professional development that provides specialized training for staff employed by out-of-school time (OST) programs, community engagement, and strategies to address chronic absenteeism.

The General Assembly is mandated to allocate no less than four million dollars ($4,000,000) in the fiscal year 2025-2026 budget for these initiatives. The funding will be allocated as follows: at least five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000) for professional development and no less than three million five hundred thousand dollars ($3,500,000) for a competitive request for proposals process.

Funding will be prioritized for programs that support equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility, particularly for low-income families, youth with disabilities, multi-language learners, and youth and families with limited access to local programs and services. The Rhode Island Afterschool Network, through their fiscal sponsor, the Rhode Island Foundation, will oversee the allocation of funds and is required to consult with key stakeholders, including the Department of Education and the Department of Human Services, to maximize the criteria for the provision of services.

Additionally, the Rhode Island Afterschool Network is required to send a written report to the General Assembly and the Governor no later than December 31 of each year on the status and progress of the programs authorized by this chapter. The act will take effect upon passage.