AN ACT RELATING TO STATE AFFAIRS AND GOVERNMENT -- CIVIL RIGHTS OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

This bill ensures continued protection against disability discrimination in Rhode Island state programs and services that receive state funding or operate under federal programs. It requires that if federal disability protections (like Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act) are repealed or invalidated, Rhode Island will maintain the same level of protection that existed before the federal change. The law applies to all state agencies, schools, and organizations receiving state financial assistance. This creates a legal safeguard to prevent gaps in disability rights during potential federal policy shifts.