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Accomplishments

Over the last few years, Governor McKee has worked tirelessly to bolster our state's economy and set up Rhode Island for a stronger, more prosperous future. As we continue our momentum, here are some of the key accomplishments Team Rhode Island has made.

Reduced Chronic Absenteeism in Schools 

Our “Attendance Matters” campaign led to 244,000 fewer student absences in the 2023-24 school year.

Building Community Learning Centers Across RI

Approximately 20 learning centers across Rhode Island will deliver education, workforce development and health and wellness resources to local communities.

Added 1.3 million Hours of Student Learning in One Year of Learn365RI

Our state’s flagship education policy is helping drive improvement inside and outside the classrooms.

Historic Investments in Housing

To increase production and affordability, we’ve passed a record-setting $120 million voter-approved bond, while working with the General Assembly to make hundreds of millions available to support housing initiatives. 

Investments in Quonset

As of August 2024, the business park was home to a record-setting 14,379 jobs and 239 companies.

Broke Ground on a new State Health Lab

State of the Art technology will help RI research, test and address emerging health issues.

Launched the Largest Offshore Wind Procurement Project in New England History

Project will power over 125,000 Rhode Island homes and help Rhode Island meets its Act on Climate goals. 

First State to Complete Phase 1 of the Federal National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure

Rhode Island now has 8 quick-charging stations to support electric vehicles and help reduce carbon emissions.

Eliminated the car tax

In 2022, the state accelerated the elimination of the car tax, providing taxpayer relief a year early. 

Signed Comprehensive Gun Safety Legislation Into Law

Legislation incudes banning large-capacity magazines, raising age minimum to purchase firearms or ammunition to 21, prohibiting open carry of loaded rifles or shotguns in public, and ensuring firearms must be safely secured.

Cybersecurity & Emergency Technologies

Rhode Island College launched the state’s first Institute to boost interest in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.

Increasing Home Energy Efficiency

With $31 Million for the U.S. Department of Energy, Rhode Island was first in the nation to operationalize the latest Energy Efficiency Program.

Keeping Rhody Litter-Free

Highway crews and community clean-ups have removed nearly 1 million gallons of litter to date through the Rhody Litter-Free program.

Signed Law Enforcement Officer’s Bill of Rights Reform

LEOBOR allows greater transparency while safeguarding officers’ rights to due process.

Created the Hope Scholarship at Rhode Island College

This last-dollar tuition scholarship is making four-year degrees possible for many Ocean State juniors and seniors.

Opened RI Reconnect Center

Located in the heart of Providence, the RI Reconnect Center helps current and prospective college students overcome barriers and successfully navigate higher education opportunities.

Delivered Child Tax Credit for RI Families

This $250 tax credit per child helps nearly 115,000 Rhode Island families across the state.

Tangible Tax Relief for Small Businesses

By establishing a $50,000 exemption, Governor McKee wiped out tangible personal property taxes for 75 percent of Rhode Island businesses.

Approved $255 Million in School Construction Funds

This unprecedented (check) investment in school buildings is ensuring learners have modern learning environments for the 21st century.

Supported the opening of the Breeze Airways Operations Base at T.F. Green International Airport

RI Commerce Corporation incentives were part of the package that brought dozens of new routes and hundreds of new jobs to T.F. Green International Airport.

Launched First-time Homebuyer Program

By offering $17,500 in down payment assistance, the McKee Administration has helped removed barriers to homeownership for qualifying Rhode Island families.