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6/9/2025
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Senate approves Sen. Patalano’s bill extending tuition assistance to dependents of National Guard members
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 STATE HOUSE – The Senate has approved legislation from Sen. Todd M. Patalano that would extend educational benefits to the dependents of active service members in the Rhode Island National Guard.
“The families of our National Guard members often endure long absences, unexpected deployments, and the uncertainty that comes with military life. This bill reflects our enduring gratitude and commitment to the brave men and women of the Rhode Island National Guard, and importantly, to their families. It represents a meaningful and practical step forward in how we support those who serve by expanding access to educational benefits for those loved ones who serve and sacrifice along with them,” said Sen. Patalano (D-Dist. 26, Cranston).
The legislation (2025-S 0757) would allow the dependents of a National Guard member who is in good standing to be eligible for tuition assistance. Currently, active National Guard members are eligible for a tuition assistance educational credit amounting to five courses per semester at any Rhode Island state college of university. The bill would allow Guard members to allocate those benefits, which cover basic tuition and general fee charges, to their dependents.
The bill was approved in the Senate on June 4. It now goes to the House of Representatives, where Rep. Earl A. Read III (D-Dist. 26, West Warwick, Coventry, Warwick) has introduced companion legislation (2025-H 5780).
For more information, contact:
Greg Pare, Director of Communications for the Senate
State House Room 112
Providence, RI 02903
(401) 276-5558
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