This bill proposes the establishment of two new academic units within the University of Rhode Island: a school of medicine and a school of dentistry, collectively referred to as Chapter 32.2 of Title 16 of the General Laws. The primary purposes of these schools are to provide professional education and training in medicine and dentistry to meet the healthcare workforce needs of the state, improve access to medical and dental care for Rhode Island residents, including underserved populations, support research and public health initiatives, and promote collaboration with hospitals, health systems, dental clinics, and other health-related institutions.

The University of Rhode Island will have the authority to confer degrees such as Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) and Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.), as well as other graduate or professional degrees approved by the board of trustees and the council on postsecondary education. The governance, management, and control of the schools will be under the board of trustees of the University of Rhode Island, with each school administered by a dean appointed by the university president with board approval.

The University will seek and maintain accreditation for the school of medicine from the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) and for the school of dentistry from the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). No students will be matriculated into a professional degree program unless authorized by the applicable accrediting body.

The University is authorized to enter into affiliation agreements with hospitals, health systems, dental clinics, community health centers, and other entities for purposes including clinical education, residency training, appointment of clinical faculty, and joint research activities. Individuals employed by affiliated entities may hold academic appointments at the University, subject to board policies.

The board of trustees may establish faculty practice plans for the administration of professional clinical services provided by faculty, with revenues generated through these plans retained by the University to support the schools' educational, clinical, and research missions. The General Assembly may appropriate funds for the planning, establishment, operation, and maintenance of the schools, including accreditation, faculty recruitment, facilities, and student support. Facilities for the schools will be subject to the state capital development process and may be financed through appropriations, bonds approved by voters, or other lawful means. The board of trustees may adopt rules and regulations necessary to carry out the provisions of this chapter. The act will take effect upon passage.