The Associated Press reports that “a Democratic Rhode Island lawmaker wants the state to put money into an empty fund created to support its military facilities and defense industry.”

“Sen. Louis DiPalma of Middletown said the state needs to invest in improvements at its military facilities but can’t because lawmakers never put any money into the fund. He wants funding to be considered as part of the budget process.”

“DiPalma, whose district includes Naval Station Newport, said the state should be proactive because he thinks Congress eventually will authorize the Pentagon to again identify military bases across the country that can be shut down.”