The bill amends Sections 16-59-4 and 16-59-6 of the General Laws in Rhode Island, enhancing the powers and responsibilities of the Council on Postsecondary Education. It introduces new duties for the council, including the review and approval of a strategic plan for public higher education, which must be prepared by the commissioner of postsecondary education. The strategic plan is required to be aligned with the goals of the Board of Education's strategic plan and must be developed with input from the governing bodies of the state's public institutions of higher learning. The plan must also direct public higher education to be accountable for increasing the educational attainment levels of Rhode Islanders and be reviewed at least once every three years.

Additionally, the commissioner of postsecondary education is tasked with making annual funding recommendations to public institutions of higher learning, which should include proposals for implementing the strategic plan. The commissioner will also consult with these institutions to develop policies and guidelines for the equitable distribution of public funds, emphasizing an outcomes-based model that aligns with the strategic plan.

The bill further stipulates that an associate of science or associate of arts degree from the Community College of Rhode Island will be recognized as meeting all general education and core requirements for transfer to a Rhode Island public institution of higher learning as a junior. It mandates that community college students receive clear information regarding curricular paths to baccalaureate degrees, including listings of non-transferable courses.

The provisions of this section are to be fully implemented no later than the beginning of the 2028-2029 academic year, with the commissioner required to report annually to the Senate President and the Speaker of the House regarding implementation progress. The act will take effect upon passage.