Rhode IslandH74162026 Regular SessionHouseWALLET

AN ACT RELATING TO EDUCATION -- GUARANTEED ADMISSION FOR EAGLE SCOUT AND GOLD AWARD RECIPIENTS .

Sponsored By: Tina L. Spears (Democratic)

Signed by Governor

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 0 costs, 2 mixed.

Automatic admission for Eagle/Gold Scouts

Beginning with Fall 2026 applications, the University of Rhode Island, Rhode Island College, and the Community College of Rhode Island grant automatic admission to Rhode Island residents who earned Eagle Scout or the Girl Scouts Gold Award. You must finish each school’s basic application steps and send official proof of your award. This guarantee covers general admission only. It does not place you into limited or special programs like nursing, engineering, pharmacy, or audition-based arts unless you meet those program rules. You may declare any major for which you meet the prerequisites. The law does not promise financial aid, tuition waivers, scholarships, or in-state tuition status.

Colleges set rules for this pathway

The Rhode Island Council on Postsecondary Education and each public college set rules to run this guarantee. They can set forms, proof standards, deadlines, and how they send admission decisions. These rules can make applying smoother but also set firm dates and paperwork you must meet. This authority is in effect now.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Tina L. Spears
Democratic • House

Cosponsors

Megan L. Cotter
Democratic • House
Anthony J. DeSimone
Democratic • House
Kathleen A. Fogarty
Democratic • House
Katherine S. Kazarian
Democratic • House
Carol Hagan McEntee
Democratic • House
Earl A. Read, III
Democratic • House
Evan P. Shanley
Democratic • House
June Speakman
Democratic • House
Jennifer A. Stewart
Democratic • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 68 • No: 0

House vote • 6/8/2026

ADMISSION FOR EAGLE SCOUT PASSAGE