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5/29/2026
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Senate OKs Tikoian bill that grants Eagle Scouts, Gold Award recipients automatic admission to public colleges
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STATE HOUSE — The Senate has passed legislation introduced by Majority Whip David P. Tikoian (D-Dist. 22, Smithfield, Lincoln, North Providence) that would grant Eagle Scouts and Girl Scout Gold Award recipients automatic admission to the state’s public colleges and universities.
The bill (2026-S 2432A) would apply to any Rhode Island resident who has earned the rank of Eagle Scout from Scouting America or the Gold Award from the Girl Scouts of the USA and meets all minimum application submission requirements of the institution.
“The rigors, labors, commitment and dedication that define an Eagle Scout or a Gold Award recipient are unique among America’s youth,” said Senator Tikoian. “It’s difficult for anyone outside the Scouting world to fathom the time and energy that goes into the process of obtaining Scouting’s highest honors. Now more than ever the world needs these individuals to lead a new generation, and the least we can do is make sure that the doors of our public institutions are open wide to them.”
Several representatives of Girl Scouts of Southeastern New England testified in favor of the legislation. Carolyn Dyer, who serves on the organization’s Highest Awards Committee, told the Senate Education Committee, “By the time a Girl Scout earns her Gold Award, she has demonstrated advanced project management, accountability and civic leadership skills that rival college-level work. I have personally witnessed the depth of research, perseverance, and professionalism these young women bring to their projects. Recognizing Gold Award Girl Scouts through opportunities such as automatic college admission is not simply honoring volunteerism — it is acknowledging a proven record of excellence, leadership and meaningful community impact.”
The measure now moves to the House of Representatives, where similar legislation (2026-H 7416) has been introduced by Rep. Tina L. Spears (D-Dist. 36, Charlestown, Westerly, South Kingstown, New Shoreham).
For more information, contact:
Daniel Trafford, Publicist
State House Room 20
Providence, RI 02903
(401)222-1922
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