Veterans (Military Families)

This bill officially designates April 2026 as the 'Month of the Military Child' within the State of Rhode Island to honor the sacrifices of military families. The resolution highlights the challenges faced by military children, such as frequent school transitions, and specifically acknowledges the Middletown School District for serving a significant number of these students. It directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the proclamation to the Middletown School Committee and Superintendent William J. Niemeyer to facilitate local observance.

This Senate resolution designates April 2026 as the "Month of the Military Child" in Rhode Island to honor children of service members. The measure highlights the sacrifices these families make and encourages the public to show support during this time. It directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to the American Legion Post 85 Women's Auxiliary.

SB 2420 allows Rhode Island National Guard members in good standing to use their state tuition assistance benefits for their dependents. Dependents enrolled in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) can receive tuition waivers for up to five courses per semester at any Rhode Island state college or university. The program is funded up to $100,000 annually per fiscal year, requires a one-year military service commitment for each 12 course credits used, and mandates that both the Guard member and dependent maintain good academic standing. Failure to meet service or academic requirements may trigger repayment of benefits.