RI State Senate Passes Bill To Cut In-State Tuition Residency Rule To 1 Year

The Rhode Island State Senate passed legislation that would shorten how long a student must live in the state to qualify for in-state tuition, according to a media release.

The bill, sponsored by Majority Leader Frank A. Ciccone III, D-Providence and Johnston, would reduce the residency requirement from three years to one year.

See also: Couple Pleads In RI To International Fraud Conspiracy Targeting Elderly: Feds

The measure would amend the Student Success Act. Under the bill, a student would also have to continue living in Rhode Island and have graduated from a Rhode Island high school or received an equivalency diploma from the state in order to qualify for in-state tuition.

See also: Federal Grand Jury Indicts Providence Man On Fentanyl Distribution Charge

“Providing all students with access to educational opportunities is critical, and this important legislation will put higher education within reach for more young people in our state – even those who are relatively new to Rhode Island. It’s about fairness, and about providing students with the best possible chance for success as they pursue a better life," Ciccone said in the release.

See also: University Of Rhode Island's Sposato Named Atlantic 10 Rookie Of The Week

"It’s an investment in young people who consider Rhode Island their home and want to build a future here," Ciccone said. "In the years ahead, that investment will provide an outstanding return for our state in terms of a stronger workforce, more prosperous communities, and less need for social services. I am very grateful to my Senate colleagues for their support."

See also: Rhode Island State Senate OKs Bill To Expand Expungement

According to the release, the proposal applies to students seeking in-state tuition under the state law and keeps other eligibility pieces in place, including continued residency and a Rhode Island diploma or equivalency credential. The change would affect the length of residency required before a student could qualify for the lower tuition rate.

The Senate's vote sends the bill to the House for consideration.

See also: Rhode Island General Assembly Marks March 31 As Japan Day At State House