The bill establishes a new chapter, CHAPTER 117, titled "STUDENT CULTURAL EXCHANGE PROGRAM," within Title 16 of the General Laws related to education. It creates a two-year pilot program overseen by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, commencing with the 2027-2028 school year. The program allows twelfth-grade students to register to travel to another state to stay with a host family for a week, enabling them to explore similarities and differences in the political, socioeconomic, and cultural features of their place of residence and the location of the exchange. The department is tasked with ensuring diverse participation from various schools and may award grants to encourage student involvement and assist participants.

Additionally, the bill establishes a Cultural Exchange Program Fund, which will be funded through categorical education aid and other sources, to support the program's activities and grant awards. 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. By September 1, 2029, the department must submit an initial report to the education committees of the house and senate on the program's participation, which may include recommendations for legislative changes.

The provisions of this chapter will sunset and expire on August 1, 2029, unless extended by the General Assembly. The act will take effect upon passage.