JOINT RESOLUTION SUBMITTING TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION TO ISSUE BONDS RELATING TO CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM (Submits the state's 2026 capital development program requesting the issuance of general obligation bonds totaling one hundred million dollars ($100,000,000) for approval of the electorate at the general election to be held in November, 2026.)

Rhode Island 2026 Capital Development Bond Measure

This is a joint resolution from the Rhode Island General Assembly that would place a question on the November 2026 ballot asking voters to approve $100 million in general obligation bonds for the state's capital development program. Rather than directly spending money, this resolution simply asks lawmakers to give Rhode Island voters the chance to decide whether the state should borrow this funding. General obligation bonds are a common way for governments to raise money for large projects, with the state promising to repay the borrowed amount — plus interest — over time.

The $100 million, if approved by voters, would be directed toward the state's capital development program, which typically funds physical improvements and infrastructure projects such as government buildings, facilities, and other long-term public assets. The specific projects to be funded would be outlined in the full capital development plan. Because these are general obligation bonds, repayment would be backed by the full faith and credit of the state of Rhode Island, meaning the state commits to repaying the debt using its taxing authority if necessary.

This measure affects all Rhode Island residents in a few ways. Taxpayers would ultimately be responsible for repaying the bonds over time, which could influence the state budget. However, the funded projects are intended to benefit the public by improving or maintaining state infrastructure and facilities. The bill is currently in the early stages of the legislative process, having been introduced and referred to the House Finance Committee, where it will be reviewed before any further action is taken.