Good news for transit riders, Medicaid providers and public school students, all of whom stand to benefit from the revised fiscal 2025 budget given first passage by a panel of House lawmakers Friday night.
The $13.9 billion spending plan unveiled late Friday falls just shy of the $14 billion high water mark that characterized fiscal 2024’s approved spending plan, but is $271 million more than what Gov. Dan McKee proposed in January.
The updated spending plan includes enough money to stave off service cuts at the financially struggling Rhode Island Public Transit Authority while offering Medicaid providers long-awaited reimbursement rate hikes in a single year, rather than the three-year incremental uptick McKee proposed. Meanwhile, a nearly $33.8 million boost in state aid to K to 12 schools, above what McKee called for, will offset a steep drop in federal funding, along with more dollars for multilingual learners.
“Through this budget, we are emphasizing education at every level and supporting children,” House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi said in a statement Friday afternoon.
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Shekarchi stressed the changes as the result of a “truly collaborative process” including lawmakers in both chambers as well as Gov. Dan McKee.
However, lawmakers have axed several components of Gov. Dan McKee’s original, $13.7 billion spending proposal, including $60 million in bonds to help pay for a new, dedicated state archives and a proposed rewrite of state income taxes for banks intended to stop Citizens Bank from shifting its investments, and employee base, outside the state.
“It has been a difficult budget because we feel the pain of Rhode Islanders,” Shekarchi said, speaking to reporters Friday night. “We tried to do the most good for the people that need it most.”
The House Committee on Finance’s 13-1 vote Friday sends the updated spending proposal to the full House of Representatives for consideration on June 7, with Rep. George Nardone, a Coventry Republican, casting the sole vote in opposition. Lawmakers must approve a final spending plan before the new fiscal year begins July 1. At far left, Larry Berman, communications director for the Office of the House Speaker, points to a reporter during the proposed fiscal 2025 budget briefing on Friday, May 31, 2024, at the State House. Left to right are House Fiscal Advisor Sharon Reynolds, House Majority Leader Chris Blazejewski, House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi and House Finance Chairman Marvin Abney. (Alexander Castro/Rhode Island Current)
Top priorities: Housing and Washington Bridge
Acknowledging the skyrocketing cost to demolish and replace the I-195 Washington Bridge, the spending plan includes $80 million to cover the state’s share of the estimated $400 million cost. This includes repurposing unspent pandemic aid, as McKee suggested, but replaces the governor’s proposal to borrow against future gas tax revenue by instead allotting $40 million in long-term capital spending for the cost.
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Combating the housing crisis, a top priority for Shekarchi, takes an even bigger role in the revised spending plan, with a historic $120 million bond to stimulate housing production, including authorization for a state public housing developer. This is $20 million more than the borrowing amount requested by Housing Secretary Stefan Pryor and included in McKee’s budget.
“We need to increase production, production, more production at every single level,” Shekarchi said.
Medicaid reimbursements, new health care initiatives
The updated budget also adds $40 million in state funding to the proposed increase in fee-for-service rates for Medicaid providers who work in behavioral health, community care and with infants and toddlers with developmental disabilities. The increase allows the state to meet the $100.3 million cost to offer rate hikes in a single year, as recommended by the Office of the Health Insurance Commissioner.
Meanwhile, the understaffed Department of Children, Youth and Families will see a $21 million funding boost to cover workforce expansion, foster care and congregate services, among others.
A new $1 million restricted receipts account, to be managed by the treasurer, will help residents pay off medical debt, one of the proposals in a 25-bill health package put forth by the Rhode Island Senate. A separate bill funding a scholarship program for doctoral and nursing students who stay and work in the state was also added to the updated spending plan.
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Help for RIPTA’s fiscal cliff, green economy bond
Amid outcries over service cuts to the embattled transit system, lawmakers allotted an extra $5 million to RIPTA – still $3 million shy of closing the agency’s funding deficit but enough to stave off any reduction in bus route locations or schedules, Shekarchi said.
Also heeding advocates’ calls to preserve and protect forest and farmland, a $53 million green economy bond now includes $13 million for the cause, while money to help rebuild the Newport Cliff Walk was trimmed from $8 million to $3 million to account for a newly awarded federal grant. House Fiscal Advisor Sharon Reynolds Ferland is shown. (Alexander Castro/Rhode Island Current)
Retirees
Retired state workers and teachers clamoring to reinstate the compounded cost-of-living adjustments that ended under a series of pension reforms enacted in 2012 still won’t get exactly what they asked for. Rather than reinstatement and retroactively applying COLAs — an estimated $169 million cost according to a legislative review that ended earlier this year —the revised budget includes new COLAs effective July 1 for retirees who stopped working before the pension reforms took effect.
“These people are the oldest, the people who have been retired the longest,” Shekarchi said. “They didn’t have the opportunity work longe into the system.”’
For other retirees, the budget preserves McKee’s proposal to raise the minimum income that retired workers from any job can earn without being taxed – from $20,000 to $50,000 (or double for joint filers).
Higher ed bonds
Two separate bond proposals supporting a Biomedical Sciences Building for the University of Rhode Island, and a separate Institute for Cybersecurity and Emerging Technologies at Rhode Island College were increased above McKee’s recommendation to reflect full funding requested by each school: $87.5 million and $73 million, respectively.
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A fifth borrowing proposal, borrowing $10 million for three specific arts projects as well as grant money administered by the state arts council, was also added to the lawmakers’ version of the budget.
New state archives is out
No longer in the borrowing list: a $60 million bond that would have covered a portion of the $100 million price tag for a new state archives, a top priority for Secretary of State Gregg Amore.
Shekarchi cited lack of details on where the archive would go or a funding partner to cover the rest of the cost as reason why the revised budget does not include any borrowing for the project.
No tax rewrite for Citizens
The need for more information and time is also why Shekarchi said a proposed tax rewrite intended to benefit Citizens Bank was nixed from the updated spending plan.
“I don’t want to be the speaker who loses Citizens Bank,” Shekarchi said in a statement Friday. “I will roll up my sleeves and get to work with them over the summer so we can prefile legislation that can be vetted early in the year, but right now, we don’t have enough information to know whether this plan is the right move for our state.”
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Rory Sheehan, a spokesperson for the bank, issued an emailed response Friday.
“We are disappointed that Budget Amendment 19 was not included in the State Budget,” Sheehan said. “This decision will make it difficult for the state to compete on a level playing field with Massachusetts and other states and is not in the best interest of Rhode Islanders. We urge the Rhode Island General Assembly to address the issue before the end of the session. We are committed to working diligently to achieve a positive outcome.”
No sales tax cut
McKee’s budget proposal offered a wishlist of extra spending items if state revenue beat expectations, including trimming the state sales tax. Senate President Dominick Ruggerio has also pushed for reducing the state sales tax to remain competitive with neighboring states.
Shekarchi’s response to a prospective sales tax cut?
“Absolutely not,” he said Friday.
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The revised budget maintains the existing 7% sales tax while striking McKee’s proposal to cut the corporate minimum tax. However, McKee’s proposed 25-cent tax increase on cigarette packs survived, as did a slightly different version of the governor’s recommendation to tax vaping products.
Unlike years past, McKee and Ruggerio did not attend a press briefing on the budget held Friday night at the State House. Each indicated general support for the revised spending plan in prepared statements.
“I am pleased that the budget will invest in many Senate priorities, particularly in the areas of health care, child care, education and providing some needed relief to retirees,” Ruggerio, a North Providence Democrat, said.
“The Speaker and I are aligned in our priorities of improving the education, housing, and health of all Rhode Islanders, and this budget makes key investments in all those areas,” McKee said. “Like the Speaker, I too appreciate the collaborative spirit in which this budget was shaped.”
Rhode Island, often referred to as the Ocean State is home to a collection of enchanting towns and villages that embody the allure and history of New England. From picturesque coastal vistas in Narragansett to the delightful, history-laden streets of Pawtuxet Village, these storybook towns provide a wonderful escape for visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure. Whether you are a history buff, a nature aficionado, or a food lover, these towns promise unforgettable experiences that will fill your cup while simultaneously beckoning you back for more.
Bristol
Adults dressed in British red coats from the American Revolution in Bristol, Rhode Island. Image credit James Kirkikis via Shutterstock
Established in 1681, Bristol is a storybook town known for its charming streets and beautifully preserved architecture. Its peaceful landscapes, historical homes, and vibrant cultural heritage create a whimsical atmosphere that captivates visitors and residents alike.
Begin your visit with a walking tour of the town grid, where you will uncover various historical sites. Highlights include Burnside Memorial Hall, a Richardsonian Romanesque Revival building steeped in early American history, as well as several churches and historic homes.
You have to check out Blithewold. This 45-room mansion set on 33 acres with beautiful gardens and rare plants is a paradise for botanists and horticulturists. Nature enthusiasts will also appreciate a ride along the East Bay Bike Path. This decades-old bike path spans 14.5 miles from Providence to Bristol.
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Narragansett
The Point Judith light near Narragansett, Rhode Island.
Nestled along the wild Atlantic coastline, Narragansett is a seaside town that provides scenic beauty, New England beach culture, and rich history.
Start your day in the adorable village of Narragansett Pier, which is home to Narragansett Town Beach. With soft sand and rolling waves, this stretch of shoreline is the perfect spot for swimming and sunbathing. After enjoying some of the best clam chowder and/or lobster rolls in New England, head to The Towers. This iconic landmark is all that’s left of the Victorian-era Narragansett Pier Casino. History enthusiasts will also appreciate a visit to the Point Judith Lighthouse, which has been guiding mariners since the 19th century. Snap a couple of photos and get a glimpse into the town’s maritime heritage.
Pawtuxet Village
A historic commercial building in Pawtuxet Village, Rhode Island. Image credit Wangkun Jia via Shutterstock
Nestled along the scenic Pawtuxet River, Pawtuxet Village is a charming community located between Cranston and Warwick, just four miles from downtown Providence. This quaint village is one of the oldest in New England and is absolutely dripping with history.
Perhaps the most significant historical event in the story of this delightful village is the Gaspee Affair, when, in 1772, American colonists protested against British taxation by burning a prominent ship, the HMS Gaspee. Every June, Pawtuxet holds the Gaspee Day Parade to celebrate this pivotal moment leading up to the American Revolution.
Aside from its history, Pawtuxet Village has become known as a hidden culinary gem. Stop by Basta for authentic Italian cuisine or indulge in a sweet (or savory) treat at Crepe Corner. Walk it off with a stroll in Pawtuxet Oxboes Park or a walk along the Pawtuxet River.
Wickford
A beautiful historic home in Wickford, Rhode Island.
Wickford, a village located in North Kingstown, boasts a rich maritime history and a thriving arts scene. Begin your visit at Wickford Harbor, where you can take in peaceful views of the boats bobbing in the water and people-watch as local fishermen go about their days. You can also rent a kayak or SUP from the Kayak Center for a different perspective on harbor life.
History buffs will appreciate the well-preserved colonial architecture that characterizes Historic Wickford Village. Admire homes dating back to the 18th century on foot or via a horse-drawn carriage ride with New Deal Horse and Carriage. Be sure to pop into the Wickford Art Association. The organization hosts a variety of exhibits and events year-round, including the annual Wickford Art Festival, a source of pride for the community since 1962.
Just a quick drive from town, you will find Smith’s Castle. This 17th-century historical site hosts the oldest plantation house in the country, where kingly plantation owners and their slaves lived for over a century. It’s part of the Rhode Island Slave History Medallion program, aimed at raising awareness of the injustices of slavery.
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East Greenwich
The waterfront at East Greenwich, Rhode Island.
Established in 1677, East Greenwich is a quaint town that combines history with modern allure. For a glimpse into local heritage, visit the Varnum Memorial Armory, constructed in 1913, which houses a museum dedicated to Rhode Island’s military history. Nearby, you can tour the Varnum House Museum, once a gathering place for prominent early American politicians. The New England Wireless & Steam Museum, which showcases the history of wireless communication and steam technology, is also worth a visit.
You can’t miss a trip to Goddard Memorial State Park. Here, you can explore 490 acres of well-kept walking trails, gardens, and picnic areas.
In the summer months, East Greenwich hosts multiple events on its Main Street showcasing local culture and talent. Music on Main, Chalk the Block, and Taste of East Greenwich all present excellent opportunities to experience local artistic and culinary talents.
Newport
Street in Newport, Rhode Island. Image credit Yingna Cai via Shutterstock
Newport is famous for its lively sailing community and, like many towns in the state, its maritime heritage. As you wander through Newport, you will be captivated by the opulent historic mansions from the Gilded Age. Some, including The Breakers and The Marble House, provide guided tours.
For a deep dive into Newport’s love of all things sailing, past, present, and future, visit the Sailing Museum. After you have immersed yourself in exhibits addressing the town’s nautical roots, check out the historic Rose Island Lighthouse.
Newport is an exceptionally bike-friendly town. Rent a bike from Ten Speed Spokes and take in the town’s scenic beauty on two wheels, stopping at a multitude of white sand beaches along the way. When hunger strikes, grab a bite at one of the glorious seafood restaurants on Bowen’s Wharf or Bannister’s Wharf.
If you are in town during the summer, don’t miss the annual Newport Folk Festival (or the Newport Jazz Festival) at Fort Adams State Park. The combination of phenomenal musical performances and views of the imposing 1840s fort is enough to take your breath away.
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Watch Hill
The Ocean House in Westerly, Rhode Island. Image credit Allard One via Shutterstock
Watch Hill is a breathtaking gem of a village in Westerly, Rhode Island. Boston Magazine described this Gilded Age summer colony as “almost absurdly picturesque.” Its white sand beaches, coastal views, and tranquil vibes, removed from the hustle and bustle, have made it a hot spot for iconic figures, ranging from Albert Einstein to Groucho Marx and even Taylor Swift.
Start your trip at The Ocean House. This iconic inn’s pale yellow façade and luxurious accommodations have been welcoming guests since just after the Civil War. Book a stay, throw on your tennis whites for a match or two, and treat yourself to a spa treatment, all while soaking in unforgettable ocean views.
No visit to Watch Hill is complete without plenty of time on the beach. Watch Hill Beach, East Beach, and Weekapaug Beach are all excellent spots for sunbathing and swimming. If you are chasing sunsets, Napatree Point is another top choice.
Before you leave, check out Watch Hill Lighthouse. Built in 1745, the lighthouse and its museum are a great place to take in views of the surrounding waterways and learn about the town’s history. And don’t miss the Flying Horse Carousel. It’s been operating since 1884 and is the ideal place to take the family and cap off your trip.
The fairy-tale towns of Rhode Island draw visitors from near and far. From the colorful galleries and harbor views of Wickford to the bike paths of Newport and the serene shores of Watch Hill, these enchanting destinations promise delightful experiences around every corner. With so much to explore and discover, it’s time to carpe diem and plan your next adventure. So, book your trip and get ready to create unforgettable memories in the heart of Rhode Island!
URI coach Archie Miller speaks after Rams beat Temple, 85-79
Led by Sebastian Thomas down the stretch, the Rhode Island Rams end their nonconference schedule with a win over Temple in a holiday tournament.
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — It wound up being just a one-game absence for Sebastian Thomas due to a foot injury, and how much the University of Rhode Island needs the veteran guard was on full display Saturday evening.
The former Bishop Hendricken standout flashed some ice cold blood in the final seconds against Temple, making the two biggest plays that dropped an old Atlantic 10 rival.
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Thomas knocked down a wing 3-pointer that snapped the game’s sixth tie, then came up with a steal on the ensuing possession. The Rams avoided what would have been a painful meltdown in the second half and instead surged into league play off the back of an 85-79 victory at MassMutual Center.
More: Rhode Island men’s basketball is on the rise in coach Archie Miller’s 3rd year in Kingston
Thomas conjured up a four-point play with 20.8 seconds left to break a 79-79 deadlock, the highlight in his second double-double of the season. He finished with 20 points and 10 assists after missing a victory over Central Connecticut State last time out. URI made relatively routine work of the Blue Devils at the Ryan Center but could have been in serious trouble against the Owls here.
“Sebastian stepped up when it was money time,” URI coach Archie Miller said. “He delivered not only from the foul line and his last shot, but he made plays for others.”
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More: Providence basketball drops Big East home opener in a heartbreaker. Here’s what happened
Miller called a timeout with 37.6 seconds left looking to snap a string of three straight missed shots. Thomas drew two defenders off the dribble on the left side, David Green drew two more on a drive into the paint and Thomas drifted open on the wing. He fired a jumper and absorbed some contact on the wrist from Quante Berry, resulting in a four-point play that made it an 83-79 game.
“I was confident,” Thomas said. “I feel like in those situations you just have to make the right pass. I threw it back to (Green), he drove and my guy kind of helped.”
It was a shot reminiscent of the late dagger Thomas plunged into Providence at the Ryan Center to begin the month. The Rams held on for a 69-63 triumph over the Friars. They matched that margin against the Owls, an old league foe that had captured the last seven meetings in the series. Javonte Brown added his own double-double with 21 points and 10 rebounds, helping to author the perfect lead into a New Year’s Eve trip to Duquesne.
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“We knew they were a good defensive team,” Brown said. “We also knew the advantage was me on the inside. Shoutout to my teammates for finding me.”
Thomas sealed the victory on the defensive end. Jamal Mashburn Jr. missed a 3-pointer and Shane Dezonie gathered an offensive rebound along the right baseline. Thomas stripped Dezonie from behind and was fouled with 10.1 seconds left, setting up a pair of free throws to close it out.
“My foot is definitely improving,” Thomas said. “I wasn’t 100% going into the game, but I think it was a mindset thing. The team needed me — the team wanted me to play.”
The Rams (11-1) squandered a 16-point lead with 14:54 left and were in danger of absorbing a painful defeat. Jaden House answered a Mashburn drive down the lane with one of his own to make it 77-77, and URI never trailed over the final 2:59. Mashburn entered averaging 20.8 points per game but went just 5-for-20 from the field, as the Rams did just enough to limit other options and survive.
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“These guys are probably exhausted from hearing his name,” Miller said. “That’s how much the game plan really kind of stressed what he was doing.”
The Owls (7-5) took a 36-35 edge into halftime before falling in a deep hole. URI was at its sharpest through the opening 5:34 out of the locker room, zipping out to a 56-40 cushion thanks to no turnovers and sizzling shooting. Green’s 3-pointer from the left corner capped an 8-for-9 stretch from the field.
“We looked right,” Miller said. “Guys were really sharing it. Our defense was creating some offense for us. We capitalized.”
The Rams followed by giving the ball away six times in less than six minutes, and Temple built its own momentum. The Owls were 12-for-18 from the field after a 1-for-6 start, and a Mashburn jumper from the right baseline gave them a 72-71 advantage with 5:36 left. Miller called a timeout prior to the ensuing possession and looked to reset.
“You found a way to win 11 games,” Miller said. “They found a way to do it again here tonight.”
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (AP) — Javonte Brown scored 21 and Sebastian Thomas sealed the victory with a 3-pointer with 21 seconds left as Rhode Island knocked off Temple 85-79 on Saturday night at the Basketball Hall of Fame Classic.
Brown added 10 rebounds for the Rams (11-1). Thomas scored 20 points while going 4 of 7 from the floor, including 3 for 6 from 3-point range, and 9 for 9 from the line and added 10 assists. David Green went 6 of 12 from the field (3 for 6 from 3-point range) to finish with 17 points.
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The Owls (7-5) were led by William Settle, who finished with 18 points, eight rebounds and two steals. Temple also got 17 points and three steals from Shane Dezonie. Jamal Mashburn Jr. scored 14.
Green scored 10 points in the first half and Rhode Island went into the break trailing 36-35. Thomas scored 15 points for Rhode Island in the second half.
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
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