Amends the Rhode Island works program to allow lawful permanent residents to receive benefits without a waiting period and increases the monthly cash benefit to one hundred percent (100%) of the federal poverty level effective July 1, 2026.

Plain-English Summary

The Rhode Island Works program is a state assistance program that provides cash benefits to low-income families, helping them cover basic needs while they work toward financial stability. This bill proposes two main changes to that program. First, it would remove the current waiting period that lawful permanent residents (green card holders) must wait before becoming eligible to receive benefits. Second, starting July 1, 2026, it would increase the monthly cash benefit amount so that families receive support equal to 100% of the federal poverty level, which is a standard measure the government uses to define minimum income needs.

Currently, lawful permanent residents must wait a period of time before qualifying for Rhode Island Works benefits, even though they are legally authorized to live and work in the United States. This bill would eliminate that waiting period, allowing them to access assistance as soon as they otherwise qualify. The benefit increase would also mean that eligible families — both existing recipients and newly eligible residents — would receive higher monthly cash payments than they currently do.

These changes would primarily affect two groups: lawful permanent residents who have previously been unable to access benefits during the waiting period, and current or future Rhode Island Works recipients who would see an increase in their monthly cash assistance. The increased benefit levels and expanded eligibility would also have an impact on the state budget, which is likely why the bill has been referred to the Senate Finance Committee for further review.