Proclaiming April of 2026, to Be "Financial Literacy Month" in the State of Rhode Island

WHEREAS, Every Rhode Islander deserves the opportunity to achieve financial security and stability regardless of zip code or background; and

WHEREAS, Our financial system is increasingly complex and Rhode Islanders are making personal finance decisions that have long-lasting consequences; and

WHEREAS, Too many Rhode Islanders continue to struggle with financial challenges at a rate higher than regional and national peers; and

WHEREAS, Individuals with strong personal finance skills have the knowledge to make informed decisions regarding budgeting, maintaining strong credit, saving, investing, and protecting and insuring their assets; and

WHEREAS, In 2021, Rhode Island joined many other states in passing legislation to guarantee that all public high school students have access to high-quality, standards aligned personal finance education; and

WHEREAS, Government, private businesses, community-based organizations, and institutions of education must continue to work together to empower consumers to make informed decisions about their finances, appropriately plan for economic instability, and avoid deceptive or predatory practices; and

WHEREAS, Strengthening the financial skills of all Rhode Islanders is an investment in the fundamental promise of a brighter future and the building of a more prosperous nation; and

WHEREAS, April is National Financial Literacy Month, where Rhode Island highlights its commitment to teaching ourselves and our children about the basics of financial education; now, therefore be it

RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island hereby proclaims April 2026, to be “Financial Literacy Month” in the State of Rhode Island. We moreover urge all Rhode Islanders to take advantage of various programs and activities that will increase their personal financial literacy during both the month of April and throughout the year; and be it further

RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and hereby is authorized and directed to transmit a duly certified copy of this resolution to the RI JumpStart Coalition.