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HR 8339

JOINT RESOLUTION MAKING AN APPROPRIATION OF $500,000 TO THE RHODE ISLAND PARENT INFORMATION NETWORK

2026 Regular Session Introduced by David Bennett and 7 co-sponsors

Rhode Island allocates $500,000 to the Parent Information Network to expand disability advocacy and parent support services for families with special needs children.

05/14/2026 Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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Bill Summary · HR 8339

Legislative bill overview

HR 8339 is a joint resolution appropriating $500,000 to the Rhode Island Parent Information Network, a nonprofit organization that provides resources, training, and support services to parents of children with disabilities. The bill directs state funding toward expanding the network's capacity to serve Rhode Island families.

Why is this important

The Rhode Island Parent Information Network serves as a crucial intermediary between families with special needs children and educational/healthcare systems. Adequate funding directly affects how many families can access free parent training, advocacy support, and navigation assistance for special education services and disability-related programs.

Potential points of contention

  • Nonprofit funding precedent: Questions about whether individual nonprofits should receive direct legislative appropriations versus competing through standard grant processes
  • Fiscal prioritization: Whether $500,000 represents the most effective allocation of state funds given competing budget pressures and other family support services
  • Accountability measures: The resolution lacks detail on measurable outcomes, reporting requirements, or performance metrics the organization must meet to justify the expenditure

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

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