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Dear Colleagues,
The Rhode Island budget is arguably one of our state’s most important policy instruments. It demonstrates our values and commitments and lays the foundation for our future.
Every year Rhode Island KIDS COUNT prepares an analysis of the Governor's Proposed State Budget, which identifies budget items that will affect the well-being of Rhode Island’s children, youth, and families. Our Budget Analysis breaks down these items across our issue areas of Early Learning and Development, Economic Well-Being, Education, Health, and Safety.
We are pleased that Governor Dan McKee’s Proposed FY 2025 budget:
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Adds $7.2 million in early childhood categorical education funds to add 35 new RI Pre-K classrooms to serve 700 more children
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Adds $3.8 million to provide 100% of the Medicaid rate increase recommended for Early Intervention
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Increases categorical funding by $16.6 million for Multilingual Learners
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Allocates $800,000 to provide free school meals to approximately 6,500 public school students who are currently eligible for reduced-price breakfast and lunch.
We are grateful for these investments and will advocate for them to remain in the budget as the General Assembly begins its process of reviewing and approving the budget. However, there are many other critical investments that were not included in the Governor’s proposed budget that are needed to meet the needs of Rhode Island’s children and families and to ensure the future prosperity of our state. Please see our full Budget Analysis for a summary of the investments that are needed as well as our 2024 Budgetary and Legislative Priorities.
We are tracking bills and budget items that relate to children, youth, and families throughout the legislative session. You can visit our website for information on important legislation and upcoming hearings and to read our public testimony on behalf of Rhode Island's children, youth, and families.
There is no other way for Rhode Island’s economy to grow and for our state to prosper but to equitably invest in our children and their families. Rhode Island KIDS COUNT will continue to advocate for our 2024 legislative and budgetary priorities alongside youth, parents, providers, and community partners.
We hope that you join us.
Sincerely,
Paige Clausius-Parks
Executive Director
Rhode Island KIDS COUNT
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