JOINT RESOLUTION MAKING AN APPROPRIATION OF $500,000 TO ONWARD WE LEARN IN SUPPORT OF RHODE ISLAND GEAR UP (Appropriates the sum of $500,000 to Onward We Learn in support of Rhode Island GEAR UP.)

Plain-English Summary

This bill is a joint resolution that would direct $500,000 in state funds to an organization called Onward We Learn, specifically to support a program known as Rhode Island GEAR UP. A joint resolution is a formal action that requires approval from both chambers of the Rhode Island legislature. The bill has been introduced and sent to the House Finance Committee, where lawmakers will review the proposed spending.

GEAR UP stands for *Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs*. It is a federally established initiative designed to help students from low-income backgrounds prepare for and succeed in college. The program typically provides services like tutoring, mentoring, college visits, financial aid guidance, and academic support to middle and high school students. Onward We Learn is the Rhode Island nonprofit organization that administers this program in the state.

If passed, this $500,000 appropriation would give Onward We Learn additional financial resources to run and potentially expand these college-readiness services for Rhode Island students who might otherwise face financial or academic barriers to higher education. The students most directly affected would be those in lower-income communities who are enrolled in or eligible for GEAR UP support services.

This bill is straightforward in its purpose — it is a funding measure with no regulatory changes or new policy requirements. Whether it becomes law depends on approval by both the House and Senate, followed by the Governor's signature.