June 16, 2026
As reported by GoLocal, multiple business organizations joined the Rhode Island League of Charter Public Schools to urge Governor McKee to veto the charter public school moratorium bill. The legislation prohibits the creation or expansion of charter public schools for three years, reduces the charter public school cap from 35 to 28, and retroactively impacts a charter public school approved to move forward.
The Rhode Island Public Expenditure Council, Greater Newport Chamber of Commerce, Northern Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce, and Providence Chamber of Commerce oppose the moratorium.
“A three-year moratorium on charter schools does not create a single new opportunity for a student, it simply takes opportunities away. Rhode Island should be expanding successful models, encouraging innovation, and empowering parents to choose the educational environment that best fits their children. I urge Governor McKee to veto this legislation and keep the door open for educational excellence in all its forms,” said Monika Zuluaga, President & CEO of the Northern Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce.
Michael DiBiase, President and CEO of the Rhode Island Public Expenditure Council, noted: “Charter public schools are a proven bright spot in Rhode Island’s education system at a time when too many parts of our K–12 system are not producing strong outcomes for students.”
For more information, read the full article on GoLocal and learn more about Rhode Island’s charter public schools on the League’s website.
Posted by Lauren Matlach