Chapter 562

2006 -- H 7161

Enacted 07/10/06

A N A C T

RELATING TO STATE AFFAIRS AND GOVERNMENT

Introduced By: Representatives Williams, Slater, Williamson, and Giannini

Date Introduced: February 08, 2006

It is enacted by the General Assembly as follows:

     SECTION 1. Title 42 of the General Laws entitled "State Affairs and Government" is

hereby amended by adding thereto the following chapter:

CHAPTER 146

THE AMERICAN AND PANAMANIAN CULTURAL EXCHANGE COMMISSION

42-146-1. Commission established. – There shall be an American and Panamanian

cultural exchange commission to consist of nine (9) members, all of whom shall be American

citizens descended from Panamanian ancestry and residents of the state; three (3) of whom shall

be appointed by the speaker of the house of representatives; three (3) of whom shall be appointed

by the president of the senate; and three (3) of whom shall be appointed by the governor. The

commission shall establish, maintain, and develop cultural ties between Panamanians and

Panamanian-Americans and shall foster a special interest in the historical and cultural background

of both groups, as well as in the economic, political, social, and artistic life of the countries

involved; and shall help establish and/or promote the Spanish language in Rhode Island's schools.

42-146-2. Terms of office - Chairperson. – The members shall be appointed for terms

of three (3) years except that of the three (3) members originally appointed by each of the

appointing authorities; one shall be appointed for a term of one year, one shall be appointed for a

term of two (2) years and one for a term of three (3) years. The members shall annually elect one

of them as chairperson of the commission.

42-146-3. Authority to accept grants. – In addition to any of its other powers and

responsibilities, the commission is authorized and empowered to accept any grants made

available by the United States government or any agency of the United States government and the

commission, with the approval of the governor, is authorized and empowered to perform these

acts and enter into all necessary contracts and agreements with the United States or any agency of

the United States government as may be necessary in the manner and degree as shall be deemed

to be in the best interest of the state. The proceeds of grants received shall be paid to the general

treasurer of the state and be deposited be him or her in a separate fund and shall be utilized for the

purposes of those grants.

     SECTION 2. This act shall take effect upon passage.

=======

LC01203

=======