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2/25/2025 Rep. Read, Sen. Raptakis bill would allow teachers to conduct a moment of silence in schools on Sept. 11
STATE HOUSE — Rep. Earl A. Read III (D-Dist. 26, Coventry, West Warwick, Warwick) has joined Sen. Leonidas P. Raptakis (D-Dist. 33, Coventry, West Greenwich) in introducing legislation that would allow teachers in public schools to hold a brief moment of silence to recognize the anniversary of the tragic attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.

The bill (2025-H 5251, 2025-S 0179) is modeled on a measure enacted in New York to commemorate the attacks on the World Trade Center towers and the Pentagon.

“It’s important to recognize this terrible moment in our history and to memorialize those who lost their lives or loved ones on that day,” said Senator Raptakis. “I hope that the legislature will take action on this legislation to allow Rhode Island educators to join with their colleagues in New York in having the chance to honor future anniversaries.”

The bills have been referred to the House and Senate education committees.

“It’s not only important to remember the attacks, but to teach those who weren’t born yet about just how much was sacrificed by those who rushed in to save countless lives, sometimes at the cost of their own,” said Representative Read, a retired Warwick police officer. “It is more fitting than ever that we pass the legislation as we approach the 25th anniversary of these attacks next year.”

For more information, contact:
Daniel Trafford, Publicist
State House Room 20
Providence, RI 02903
(401)222-1922