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SB 336

AN ACT RELATING TO EDUCATION -- TRANSPORTATION OF SCHOOL PUPILS BEYOND CITY AND TOWN LIMITS

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jonathon Acosta and 8 co-sponsors

SB 336 expands Rhode Island school districts' authority to transport students attending schools in other municipalities, affecting cost allocation and educational access across district lines.

06/10/2025 Senate read and passed
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Bill Summary · SB 336

Legislative bill overview

SB 336 modifies Rhode Island law regarding the transportation of school pupils beyond their city and town limits. The bill allows school districts greater flexibility in providing or arranging transportation for students attending schools outside their immediate geographic area. This addresses situations where students cross municipal boundaries for educational opportunities.

Why is this important

School transportation is a significant operational and budgetary issue for districts, affecting both student access to educational programs and municipal costs. The bill's passage enables districts to better manage inter-district enrollment and transportation logistics, which is increasingly relevant as regional school choice programs and magnet schools expand. This can impact property tax rates, educational equity across districts, and student participation in specialized programs.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost allocation disputes: Unclear which municipalities bear transportation costs when students travel beyond district lines, potentially creating budget conflicts between sending and receiving districts
  • Educational equity concerns: Students from lower-income areas or rural towns may face practical barriers if transportation isn't adequately provided or subsidized
  • Municipal autonomy: Towns may resist state-level mandates that increase their obligations to fund transportation for non-resident students attending schools elsewhere

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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