The bill amends various sections of the General Laws concerning the University of Rhode Island, establishing a Board of Trustees as a public corporation responsible for managing the university's operations, property, and finances. Key provisions grant the board the authority to enter into contracts, manage employee benefits, and oversee procurement processes without being bound by certain state purchasing regulations. The board is also empowered to adopt its own rules and regulations regarding procurement and is designated to have a chief purchasing officer.

The bill specifies that the university shall not be required to comply with chapter 2 of title 37 ("state purchases") for most procurements, except for those directly related to projects funded by the State of Rhode Island general obligation bonds. It also includes a provision that exempts the University of Rhode Island from limitations on full-time equivalent (FTE) positions, effective retroactively to July 1, 2025.

Additionally, the bill establishes a landscaping fund for university improvements and allows the university to create its own internal audit functions and controls. It modifies the definition of "state agency" by removing exclusions for purchases funded by restricted, sponsored, or auxiliary moneys, specifying that such purchases will now be funded by proceeds of general obligation bonds. The bill also outlines responsibilities and qualifications for construction management at-risk services, emphasizing the need for relevant experience. Overall, these amendments aim to enhance governance and operational efficiency at the University of Rhode Island, with the act set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
8164: 37-2-7