It is declared that, for the benefit of the people of the state, the conduct and increase of their commerce, the protection and enhancement of their welfare, the development of continued prosperity, and the improvement of their health and living conditions, it is essential that this and future generations be given the fullest opportunity to learn and to develop their intellectual skills and be given the fullest access to affordable housing. In order to achieve these ends it is important that Rhode Island citizens be provided with an investment opportunity to enhance their financial access to institutions of higher education and access to housing within this state. It is the intent of the general assembly to provide the people of the state with an alternative method of saving for the purpose of encouraging enrollment in institutions of higher education and for the purpose of encouraging the purchase of residential dwellings within the state.