The bill establishes a new pilot program within the Rhode Island executive office of housing, titled the "Homelessness Employment Program." This initiative aims to provide paid, temporary employment opportunities for individuals experiencing homelessness, focusing on community beautification, sanitation, and cleanup projects. The program is designed to be low-barrier, meaning it does not require participants to have a permanent address, prior work experience, or involvement in law enforcement actions. Participants will be compensated at least the Rhode Island minimum wage and will receive necessary worker protections, including workers' compensation coverage, workplace safety training, and appropriate personal protective equipment.

Additionally, the program will facilitate access to supportive services such as job readiness training, assistance with obtaining identification documents, referrals to housing navigation services, and behavioral health and substance use treatment referrals. The executive office of housing is authorized to collaborate with municipalities, state agencies, nonprofit organizations, and other eligible entities to identify projects, supervise work crews, and manage day-to-day operations. The program is set to operate for three years, commencing on July 1, 2026, and will require annual reporting on its progress and outcomes, including the number of individuals served, work hours provided, total wages paid, types and locations of projects completed, referrals to housing and supportive services, and recommendations regarding continuation, expansion, or modification of the program. It is also subject to funding appropriations from the General Assembly and may seek additional federal funds, grants, private donations, or other funding sources to support the program. The program is scheduled to sunset on July 1, 2029, unless extended by the General Assembly.