Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2185

Filed/Introduced
 
Introduced
1/16/26  
Refer
1/16/26  
Report Pass
5/14/26  
Engrossed
5/21/26  
Refer
5/22/26  

Caption

RELATING TO MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES -- REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES

Impact

The act amends Chapter 31-3 of the General Laws relating to the registration of vehicles in Rhode Island. The creation of these special plates entails a forty-dollar issuance surcharge, which will be split between the general fund and Real Access Motivates Progress to support its accessibility programs. This funding mechanism is designed to ensure that some of the financial burden for these programs is offset by those who choose to purchase the special plates, potentially leading to greater community investment in accessibility efforts.

Summary

Bill S2185 proposes the creation of a special motor vehicle registration plate dedicated to the nonprofit organization Real Access Motivates Progress. This bill aims to enhance visibility and support for accessibility initiatives led by the organization, which is a recognized 501(c)(3) charity. The new plates will not only serve as a means for individuals to show their support for the nonprofit but will also contribute to its funding through associated surcharges.

Contention

While the bill appears to have substantial support as a beneficial initiative for promoting charity work, points of contention may arise around the balance of state resources used for these special plate programs versus their financial sustainability. Additionally, there may be discussions regarding the adequacy of oversight concerning the allocation of funds raised through the plate sales, as the bill requires Real Access Motivates Progress to submit annual accounting reports before funds are distributed. This ensures accountability but may also raise questions about administrative burdens for the nonprofit.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0679

RELATING TO MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES -- REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES

RI H5098

Creates a new motor vehicle registration for "forestry vehicles."

RI H6148

Empowers the division of motor vehicles to make available special motor vehicle registration plates for the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association.

RI S0155

Empowers the division of motor vehicles to make available special motor vehicle registration plates for the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association.

RI H5048

Creates special motor vehicle registration plates for vehicles based on the not-for-profit entity Rhode Island Fire Chiefs Honor Flight Hub.

RI H6124

Allows the division of motor vehicles to make special motor vehicle registration plates for the not-for-profit entity Cranston Cares provided they meet the minimum order requirements.

RI S0931

Establishes a system of electronic registration and titling of motor vehicles. Rules and regulations to implement the provisions of this chapter to be promulgated by the administrator of the division of motor vehicles.

RI H5458

Establishes a system of electronic registration and titling of motor vehicles. Rules and regulations to implement the provisions of this chapter would be promulgated by the administrator of the division of motor vehicles.

RI S0830

DMV to provide credit for portions of unused voluntarily cancelled vehicle registrations.

RI H5768

DMV to provide credit for portions of unused voluntarily cancelled vehicle registrations.

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TX HB881

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NJ S4073

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RI S0592

Creates a special license plate for the charity Real Access Motivates Progress, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

RI H6148

Empowers the division of motor vehicles to make available special motor vehicle registration plates for the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association.

RI H6307

Creates a special license plate for the charity Real Access Motivates Progress, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.