Bill > H5992

This bill amends the Rhode Island Works Program to make several key changes aimed at providing more supportive benefits to low-income families. First, the bill removes the waiting period for lawful permanent residents to receive benefits, allowing them to access assistance immediately upon qualifying. Second, starting July 1, 2025, the monthly cash benefit will be increased to fifty percent of the federal poverty level for the recipient's family size, which represents a significant boost to the current payment standard. The bill also expands the child support pass-through provision, increasing the amount from $50 to $100 for families with one child and to $200 for families with more than one child, meaning these families can keep more of the child support payments collected by the state. These changes are designed to provide more financial stability and support for low-income families, with a particular focus on making the program more accessible to immigrant families and providing a more meaningful level of financial assistance. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving state agencies time to prepare for implementing these changes.