Bill > H5767

This bill removes the specific definition of "totally and permanently disabled" from a Rhode Island state law that provides college tuition assistance to the spouse and children of police officers who are killed or disabled in the line of duty. Currently, the law allows tuition to be paid from the state's general fund for children and/or spouse of police officers who are killed or become totally and permanently disabled while performing their duties. The bill eliminates the existing legal definition which described "totally and permanently disabled" as any impairment that makes it impossible for a person to continuously follow a gainful occupation. By removing this definition, the bill appears to maintain the existing tuition assistance provisions but simplifies the language around disability qualifications. The tuition benefit remains available for children who enter college between ages 16 and 21, and can cover up to four years of education at state-operated colleges and universities. The bill would take effect immediately upon its passage.

Budget and Finance

https://status.rilegislature.gov/