The bill establishes a new chapter, CHAPTER 117, titled "STUDENT CULTURAL EXCHANGE PROGRAM," within Title 16 of the General Laws related to education. It mandates the creation of a two-year pilot program overseen by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, commencing with the 2026-2027 school year. The program will enable twelfth-grade students to register for a week-long cultural exchange experience by staying with host families in another state, allowing them to explore the political, socioeconomic, and cultural features of both their home and the exchange location. The department is tasked with ensuring diverse participation from various schools and districts and may award grants to encourage and assist student involvement.

The bill also establishes a Cultural Exchange Program Fund, which will be funded through categorical education aid and other sources, to support the program's implementation and grant distribution. The department is required to ensure participation by at least five schools in the first year and up to ten schools in the second year, with a targeted goal of continuing the program beyond the pilot period. An initial report on participation must be submitted to the education committees of the house and senate by September 1, 2028. The program is set to sunset on August 1, 2028, unless extended by the General Assembly. The act will take effect upon passage.