Rhode Island commission studies how the state funds public schools

A 16-member legislative commission must study Rhode Island's school funding system and assess the Rhode Island Foundation's recommended reforms. Members include House and Senate lawmakers, including minority-party members, education leaders, and state and local finance officials. Cost comparisons must use the latest complete year of verified school revenue and spending records. Members receive no pay. State agencies must provide information the commission needs, and the commission may receive funding and administrative support. The commission must first meet no later than October 31, 2026, and meet regularly afterward.

The commission must recommend school funding changes and propose a plan for putting those recommendations into practice. The recommendations must address the education and financial needs of Rhode Island and its cities and towns. The proposed transition may span no more than five fiscal years and must specify yearly adjustments to state and local shares. The resolution requires recommendations; it does not itself adopt the recommended school funding changes. Reports go to the governor and House and Senate leaders: an interim report by March 2, 2027, and a final report by September 1, 2027. The commission expires December 1, 2027.