JOINT RESOLUTION MAKING AN APPROPRIATION OF $991,000 FOR THE TOWN OF MIDDLETOWN (Authorizes the appropriation of the sum of $991,000 for the town of Middletown to upgrade the gymnasium at the new Middletown middle high school to serve a regional emergency shelter.)

Plain-English Summary

This bill would authorize the state of Rhode Island to send $991,000 to the Town of Middletown for a specific construction project. The money would be used to upgrade the gymnasium at the new Middletown Middle High School so that it can function as a regional emergency shelter when needed. This type of funding measure is called a "joint resolution," meaning both the Rhode Island House and Senate would need to approve it.

The upgrades would essentially make the school gymnasium capable of serving a dual purpose — a regular gym during normal times, and a safe place for people to go during emergencies such as natural disasters or severe storms. Emergency shelters typically require special features like backup power, enhanced ventilation, accessibility accommodations, and other infrastructure that a standard gymnasium might not have.

This bill primarily affects residents of Middletown and potentially surrounding communities in the region who could rely on the shelter during an emergency. It also affects Rhode Island taxpayers statewide, since the $991,000 would come from the state budget. The bill has been introduced and referred to the House Finance Committee, which means lawmakers are currently reviewing whether to move it forward for a full vote.