The bill amends the Rhode Island Works Program to allow lawful permanent residents to receive benefits without a waiting period. Key changes include increasing the monthly cash benefit to one hundred percent (100%) of the federal poverty level effective July 1, 2026, and tying the benefit amount to the federal poverty level going forward. The bill also increases the cash support pass-through to one hundred dollars ($100) for one child and two hundred dollars ($200) for more than one child. Additionally, it removes the current reduction of sixty-five dollars ($65.00) for families living in subsidized housing.

The payment standard for cash assistance will be adjusted to ensure it is no less than one hundred percent (100%) of the poverty guideline for the comparable assistance unit size as determined by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for calendar year 2026, with annual adjustments thereafter.

The bill takes effect on July 1, 2026.