Bills affecting Student / education borrower in Rhode Island — 2026 session

Establishes the Higher Education Opportunities for Students with Disabilities Act.

Creates the Rhode Island Student Loan repayment program which would allow eligible individuals who have unpaid student loans, provided said individuals meet specified criteria.

Removes the definition of "totally and permanently disabled" from the general law affording college tuition paid by the state to the spouse and children of active members of the police force who are killed or disabled during duty.

Allows Rhode Island employers can help pay employees’ student loans in high-need fields if they work full-time for 2 years in undeserved areas and are in an income driven repayment plan. RISLA must provide annual reporting.

Creates a postsecondary tuition assistance for shortage teaching fields.

Directs the commissioner of postsecondary education to prepare a strategic plan for public higher education which is aligned with the goals of the board of education's strategic plan.

Provides any student, who meets the requirements of this section, with an exemption from paying nonresident tuition at Rhode Island public universities, colleges, or community colleges.

Provides a tax upon the endowment of a private institution of higher education equal to two percent (2%) upon each dollar over $1,000,000,000.

Allows the dependents of a national guard member, who is in good standing, to be eligible for tuition assistance.