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HR 8491

HOUSE RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING APRIL 2026 AS "OUT-OF-SCHOOL TIME MONTH" IN THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Edith Ajello and 9 co-sponsors

Declares April 2026 in Rhode Island as Out-of-School Time Month to recognize and promote the value of afterschool and summer programs for youth development and family well-being.

04/30/2026 House read and passed
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 8491

Summary: HR 8491 — Recognizing April 2026 as "Out-of-School Time Month" in Rhode Island

Purpose and intent

  • The bill is a House Resolution recognizing April 2026 as "Out-of-School Time Month" in the State of Rhode Island.
  • Its objective is to raise awareness of the importance and impact of out-of-school time (OST) programs, including afterschool and summer learning programs, on youth development, education, and family well-being.
  • The resolution acknowledges the critical role OST programs play in academic support, social and emotional development, mental health, and resilience.

Key provisions and changes

  • Declares April 2026 as "Out-of-School Time Month" in Rhode Island.
  • Recognizes the value of OST programs in providing safe, supportive, and enriching environments during non-school hours.
  • Highlights the positive outcomes associated with high-quality OST programs, such as improved student engagement, life skills, and reduced risk behaviors.
  • Notes the ongoing demand for OST services in Rhode Island and the need for continued investment and access to programs for all youth.
  • Applauds organizations that support and strengthen the OST workforce and program quality, including the Rhode Island Afterschool Network and the National Afterschool Association.
  • Designates a period (April 20–24, 2026) as Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week to honor the educators, mentors, and role models who staff OST programs.
  • Encourages continued collaboration among educators, policymakers, and community organizations to expand opportunities for children and families.

Who is affected

  • OST program providers and staff (afterschool and summer programs) in Rhode Island.
  • Youth and families who participate in or rely on OST programming.
  • Policymakers, educators, community organizations, and advocates working in youth development and afterschool sectors.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Introduced in the Rhode Island House of Representatives on April 30, 2026.
  • Referred to the House for reading and passage; the action history shows it passed the House on April 30, 2026.
  • The resolution directs the Secretary of State to transmit certified copies of the resolution to:
    • Michael Dunican, Statewide Director of the Rhode Island Afterschool Network
    • The National Afterschool Association

Note on scope

  • As a resolution, the bill does not create new laws or funding obligations. Instead, it serves to acknowledge, celebrate, and promote awareness of OST programs and their importance, potentially encouraging further advocacy and investment.

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

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