reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-1.8 - Commission on the Deaf and Hard-Of-Hearing › Section 23-1.8-2. - Duties — Activities.

§ 23-1.8-2. Duties — Activities.
The commission shall be primarily a coordinating and advocating body, acting on behalf of the special concerns of deaf and hard-of-hearing persons in Rhode Island. Its activities shall be independent of any existing agency or department within the state. The commission shall be accountable directly to the executive office of the state, and shall submit an annual report to the governor. The commission will assume the following duties:
(1)
Bring about greater cooperation and coordination among agencies and organizations now servicing or having the potential to serve the deaf and hard-of-hearing;
(2)
Promote greater accessibility to services for the deaf and hard-of-hearing;
(3)
Conduct an ongoing needs assessment;
(4)
Promote increased awareness and provide information and referrals;
(5)
Advocate for the enactment of legislation that would assist the needs of individuals who are deaf and hard-of-hearing;
(6)
Administer a sign language interpreter referral service;
(7)
Take necessary action to improve the quality of life for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals living in Rhode Island;
(8)
Develop a statewide coordinating council that will coordinate the implementation of the comprehensive statewide strategic plan for children in Rhode Island who are deaf or have hearing loss. The composition, functions and activities of the statewide coordinating council shall be consistent with the provisions of the strategic plan developed through the Rhode Island department of elementary and secondary education.
(9)
Track the yearly services provided by exempted interpreters, as defined in subsection 5-71-15(4).
History of Section.
P.L. 1978, ch. 105, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 23-57-2; P.L. 1979, ch. 39, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 23-1.8-1; P.L. 1984, ch. 153, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 174, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 72, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 243, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 261, § 4; P.L. 2006, ch. 277, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-1.8 - Commission on the Deaf and Hard-Of-Hearing › Section 23-1.8-2.1. - Sign language interpreter referral service.

§ 23-1.8-2.1. Sign language interpreter referral service.
The commission shall administer the sign language interpreter referral service for all certified licensee, licensee, grandparent licensee, and special licensee interpreters, as provided in chapter 71 of title 5, who hold a valid interpreter for the deaf license issued by the state board of examiners of interpreters for the deaf pursuant to § 5-71-9 or § 5-71-12 [repealed] or hold a valid license, certificate, or equivalent issued with another state with reciprocity pursuant to § 5-71-10. The commission shall not impose any limits on the practice of certified licensees, licensees, grandparent licensees, or special licensees beyond those imposed by the state board of examiners for interpreters for the deaf. Prior to January 1, 1998 the commission’s sign language interpreter referral service shall be open to all interpreters for the deaf who meet or exceed qualifications for license in § 5-71-9, 5-71-10, 5-71-11 [repealed], or 5-71-12 [repealed]. The commission shall refer any complaints regarding the conduct or performance of any interpreter utilizing their referral service to the state board of examiners for interpreters for the deaf for appropriate action pursuant to § 5-71-13. The commission shall upon receipt of notice of revocation or suspension of a license by the state board of examiners for interpreters for the deaf, immediately cease to refer customers to that licensee, unless and until the license is restored.
History of Section.
P.L. 1996, ch. 151, § 2; P.L. 2008, ch. 475, § 33.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-1.8 - Commission on the Deaf and Hard-Of-Hearing › Section 23-1.8-3. - Committees.

§ 23-1.8-3. Committees.
(a)
To assist in the performance of its duties the commission shall establish various committees. Except as authorized by the commission, committees shall be composed of no more than seven (7) members who shall serve staggered terms.
(b)
At least one individual who is deaf, one individual who is hard-of-hearing, and one commission member, whenever possible, shall serve on each committee. In addition, governmental agencies shall assign one representative to the following committees:
(1)
Telecommunications relay service committee: one representative of the public utilities commission;
(2)
Education committee: one representative of the department of elementary and secondary education and one representative of the Rhode Island School for the Deaf;
(3)
Employment committee: one representative of the department of human services, and one representative of the department of labor and training;
(4)
Health care committee: one representative of the department of elderly affairs, one representative of the department of health, and one representative of the department of behavioral healthcare, developmental disabilities and hospitals;
(c)
The committees are responsible for appointing their chairpersons. Chairpersons shall report upon the activities of their committees at commission meetings.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 174, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-1.8 - Commission on the Deaf and Hard-Of-Hearing › Section 23-1.8-4. - Emergency and public communication access account.

§ 23-1.8-4. Emergency and public communication access account.
(a)
There is established within the general fund the emergency and public communication access restricted receipt account, which shall be referred to as the EPCA account. The purpose of this account is to fund emergency communication and enhance public communication access for deaf and hard of hearing people, in accordance with § 39-1-42(d). In addition, the account shall be used to enhance emergency communication systems to alert deaf and hard of hearing people to any type of emergencies within the state.
(b)
The account shall be used to purchase and install public communication access equipment and products at public sites for deaf and hard of hearing citizens.
(c)
The commission is authorized to establish, administer and promote its emergency and public communication access program.
(d)
The commission is authorized to make purchases specifically for the EPCA program and empowered to receive donations and grants from sources including, but not limited to, the federal government, governmental and private foundations, and corporate and individual donors; these donations and grants to be deposited in the EPCA account.
(e)
The commission is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations that will set forth how the commission shall utilize the EPCA account. In preparing rules and regulations regarding emergency communications, the commission shall confer with applicable departments and agencies.
History of Section.
P.L. 2013, ch. 144, art. 17, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-1.8 - Commission on the Deaf and Hard-Of-Hearing › Section 23-1.8-5. - Communication access services.

§ 23-1.8-5. Communication access services.
A state employee who is approved by the commission for the deaf and hard of hearing as an interpreter or a communication access realtime translation (CART) provider may be employed by the commission or by other state agencies as long as the interpreter and CART services:
(1)
Are provided outside of the normal working hours of the employee in order to comply with federal, state, and local laws;
(2)
The services are not required as part of the regular duties of the employee;
(3)
The employee does not participate in or have official responsibility for the financial management of the contracting agency;
(4)
The employee is compensated for no more than four (4) hours in any day in which the employee is otherwise compensated by the state of Rhode Island; and
(5)
The head of the contracting agency files with the state ethics commission a written certification that there is a critical need for the services of the employee.
History of Section.
P.L. 2019, ch. 181, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 210, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-1.10 - Alcoholism › Section 23-1.10-1. - Declaration of policy.

§ 23-1.10-1. Declaration of policy.
The problem of alcoholism, with its attendant effects upon the economic condition of alcoholics and those dependent upon them, and the substantial physical deterioration brought about by the misuse of alcohol, has, as shown by the studies, become more and more a major concern of government. Those who, through the misuse of alcohol, adversely affect their health and their economic independence have in recent years increased in number. This chapter is designed to provide proper treatment for those who have been habitually misusing alcohol as a beverage. It is the further policy of this state that alcoholics and intoxicated persons may not be subjected to criminal prosecution because of their consumption of alcoholic beverages but rather should be afforded a continuum of treatment in order that they may lead normal lives as productive members of society.
History of Section.
P.L. 1951, ch. 2755, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 40-12-1; P.L. 1972, ch. 130, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 40.1-4-1; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 14, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-1.10 - Alcoholism › Section 23-1.10-2. - Definitions.

§ 23-1.10-2. Definitions.
As used in this chapter:
(1)
“Alcoholic” means a person who habitually lacks self-control as to the use of alcoholic beverages, or uses alcoholic beverages to the extent that his or her health is substantially impaired or endangered or his or her social or economic function is substantially disrupted;
(2)
“Approved private treatment facility” means a private agency meeting the standards prescribed in § 23-1.10-7(a) and approved under § 23-1.10-7(c);
(3)
“Approved public treatment facility” means a treatment agency operating under the direction and control of the department or providing treatment under this chapter through a contract with the department under § 23-1.10-6(g) and meeting the standards prescribed in § 23-1.10-7(a);
(4)
“Department” means department of behavioral healthcare, developmental disabilities and hospitals;
(5)
“Director” means the director of the department of behavioral healthcare, developmental disabilities and hospitals;
(6)
“Incapacitated by alcohol” means a person, who as a result of the use of alcohol is intoxicated to such an extent that he or she is unconscious or has his or her judgment otherwise so impaired that he or she is incapable of realizing and making a rational decision with respect to his or her need for treatment;
(7)
“Incompetent person” means a person who has been adjudged incompetent by the probate court of the city and town in which the person resides, or any other court of competent jurisdiction;
(8)
“Intoxicated person” means a person whose mental or physical functioning is substantially impaired as a result of the use of alcohol;
(9)
“Treatment” means the broad range of emergency, outpatient, intermediate, and inpatient services and care, including diagnostic evaluation, medical, psychiatric, psychological, and social service care, vocational rehabilitation and career counseling, which may be extended to alcoholics and intoxicated persons.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 130, § 1; P.L. 1984, ch. 122, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 40.1-4-2; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 14, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-1.10 - Alcoholism › Section 23-1.10-3. - Powers assumed by department.

§ 23-1.10-3. Powers assumed by department.
The department may:
(1)
Plan, establish, and maintain treatment programs as necessary or desirable;
(2)
Make contracts necessary or incidental to the performance of its duties and the execution of its powers, including contracts with public and private agencies, organizations, and individuals to pay them for services rendered or furnished to alcoholics or intoxicated persons;
(3)
Solicit and accept for use any gift of money or property made by will or otherwise, and any grant of money, services, or property from the federal government, the state, or any political subdivision of the state or any private source, and do all things necessary to cooperate with the federal government or any of its agencies in making an application for any grant;
(4)
Administer or supervise the administration of the provisions relating to alcoholics and intoxicated persons of any state plan submitted for federal funding pursuant to federal health, welfare, or treatment legislation;
(5)
Coordinate its activities and cooperate with alcoholism programs in this and other states, and make contracts and other joint or cooperative arrangements with state, local, or private agencies in this and other states for the treatment of alcoholics and intoxicated persons and for the common advancement of alcoholism programs;
(6)
Keep records and engage in research and the gathering of relevant statistics;
(7)
Do other acts and things necessary or convenient to execute the authority expressly granted to it; and
(8)
Acquire, hold, or dispose of real property or any interest in real property, and construct, lease, or otherwise provide treatment facilities for alcoholics and intoxicated persons.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 130, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 40.1-4-3; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 14, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-1.10 - Alcoholism › Section 23-1.10-6. - Comprehensive program for treatment.

§ 23-1.10-6. Comprehensive program for treatment.
(a)
The department shall establish a comprehensive and coordinated program for the treatment of alcoholics and intoxicated persons. The director shall divide the state into appropriate regions for the conduct of the program and establish standards for the development of the program on the regional level. In establishing the regions, consideration shall be given to city, town, and county lines and population concentrations.
(b)
The program of the division shall include:
(1)
Emergency treatment provided by a facility affiliated with or part of the medical service of a general hospital;
(2)
Inpatient treatment;
(3)
Intermediate treatment; and
(4)
Outpatient and follow-up treatment.
(c)
The department shall provide for adequate and appropriate treatment for alcoholics and intoxicated persons admitted pursuant to §§ 23-1.10-11 and 23-1.10-12. Treatment may not be provided at a correctional institution except for inmates.
(d)
The department shall maintain, supervise, and control all facilities operated by it subject to its policies. The administrator of each facility shall make an annual report of its activities to the director in the form and manner the director specifies.
(e)
All appropriate public and private resources shall be coordinated with and utilized in the program whenever possible.
(f)
The director shall prepare, publish, and distribute annually a list of all approved public and private treatment facilities.
(g)
The department may contract for the use of any facility as an approved public treatment facility if the director, subject to the policies of the department, considers this to be an effective and economical course to follow.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 130, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 40.1-4-6; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 14, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-1.10 - Alcoholism › Section 23-1.10-7. - Standards for treatment facilities — Inspections — Furnishing information to department — Noncompliance with standards.

§ 23-1.10-7. Standards for treatment facilities — Inspections — Furnishing information to department — Noncompliance with standards.
(a)
The department shall establish standards for approved treatment facilities that must be met for a treatment facility to be approved as a public or private treatment facility, and fix the fees to be charged by the department for the required inspections. The standards may concern only the health standards to be met and standards of treatment to be afforded patients.
(b)
The department shall periodically inspect approved public and private treatment facilities at reasonable times and in a reasonable manner.
(c)
The department shall maintain a list of approved public and private treatment facilities.
(d)
Each approved public and private treatment facility shall file with the department on request: data, statistics, schedules, and any other information that the department reasonably requires. An approved public or private treatment facility that without good cause fails to furnish any data, statistics, schedules, and any other information as requested, or files fraudulent returns, shall be removed from the list of approved treatment facilities.
(e)
The department, after holding a hearing, may suspend, revoke, limit, or restrict an approval, or refuse to grant an approval, for failure to meet its standards.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 130, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 40.1-4-7; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 14, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-1.10 - Alcoholism › Section 23-1.10-8. - Rules as to acceptance for treatment.

§ 23-1.10-8. Rules as to acceptance for treatment.
The director shall adopt and may amend and repeal rules for acceptance of persons into the treatment program, considering available treatment resources and facilities for the purpose of early and effective treatment of alcoholics and intoxicated persons. In establishing the rules the director shall be guided by the following standards:
(1)
If possible a patient shall be treated on a voluntary rather than an involuntary basis.
(2)
A patient shall be initially assigned or transferred to outpatient or intermediate treatment, unless he or she is found to require inpatient treatment.
(3)
A person shall not be denied treatment solely because he or she has withdrawn from treatment against medical advice on a prior occasion or because he or she has relapsed after earlier treatment.
(4)
An individualized treatment plan shall be prepared and maintained on a current basis for each patient.
(5)
Provision shall be made for a continuum of coordinated treatment services, so that a person who leaves a facility or a form of treatment will have available and utilize other appropriate treatment.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 130, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 40.1-4-8; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 14, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-1.10 - Alcoholism › Section 23-1.10-9. - Voluntary treatment of alcoholics.

§ 23-1.10-9. Voluntary treatment of alcoholics.
(a)
An alcoholic may apply for voluntary treatment directly to an approved public treatment facility. If the proposed patient is a minor or an incompetent person, he or she, a parent, a legal guardian, or other legal representative may make the application.
(b)
Subject to rules adopted by the director, the administrator in charge of an approved public treatment facility may determine who shall be admitted for treatment; provided, however, that a person so admitted may be held by the department for at least thirty (30) days. That person shall be released at the end of thirty (30) days upon written request to the administrator in charge of the treatment facility. If a person is refused admission to an approved public treatment facility, the administrator, subject to rules adopted by the director, shall refer the person to another approved public treatment facility for treatment if possible and appropriate.
(c)
If a patient receiving inpatient care leaves an approved public treatment facility, he or she shall be encouraged to consent to appropriate outpatient or intermediate treatment. If it appears to the administrator in charge of the treatment facility that the patient is an alcoholic who requires help, the department shall arrange for assistance in obtaining supportive services and residential facilities.
(d)
If a patient leaves an approved public treatment facility, with or against the advice of the administrator in charge of the facility, the department will attempt to make reasonable provisions for his or her transportation to another facility or to his or her home. If he or she has no home, he or she shall be referred or advised to make contact with the appropriate state or federal agency for assistance in obtaining shelter. If he or she is a minor or an incompetent person, the request for discharge from an inpatient facility shall be made by a parent, legal guardian, or other legal representative or by the minor or incompetent if he or she was the original applicant.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 130, § 1; P.L. 1984, ch. 122, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 40.1-4-9; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 14, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-1.10 - Alcoholism › Section 23-1.10-11. - Emergency commitment.

§ 23-1.10-11. Emergency commitment.
(a)
An intoxicated person who (1) has threatened, attempted, or inflicted physical harm on himself or herself or another and is likely to inflict physical harm on himself or herself or another unless committed, or (2) is incapacitated by alcohol, may be committed to an approved public treatment facility for emergency treatment. A refusal to undergo treatment does not constitute evidence of lack of judgment as to the need for treatment.
(b)
The certifying physician, spouse, guardian, or relative of the person to be committed, or any other responsible person, may make a written application for commitment under this section, directed to the administrator of the approved public treatment facility. The application shall state facts to support the need for emergency treatment and be accompanied by a physician’s certificate stating that he or she has examined the person sought to be committed within two (2) days before the certificate’s date and facts supporting the need for emergency treatment.
(c)
Upon approval of the application by the administrator in charge of the approved public treatment facility, the person shall be brought to the facility by a peace officer, health officer, the applicant for commitment, the patient’s spouse, the patient’s guardian, or any other interested person. The person shall be retained at the facility to which he or she was admitted, or transferred to another appropriate public or private treatment facility, until discharged under subsection (e).
(d)
The administrator in charge of an approved public treatment facility shall refuse an application if in his or her opinion the application and certificate failed to sustain the grounds for commitment.
(e)
When, on the advice of the medical staff, the administrator determines that the grounds for commitment no longer exist, he or she shall discharge a person committed under this section. No person committed under this section may be detained in any treatment facility for more than ten (10) days. If a petition for involuntary commitment under § 23-1.10-12 has been filed within the ten (10) days and the administrator in charge of an approved public treatment facility finds that grounds for emergency commitment still exist, he or she may detain the person until the petition has been heard and determined, but no longer than ten (10) days after filing the petition.
(f)
A copy of the written application for commitment and of the physician’s certificate, and a written explanation of the person’s right to counsel, shall be given to the person within twenty-four (24) hours after commitment by the administrator, who shall provide a reasonable opportunity for the person to consult counsel.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 130, § 1; P.L. 1973, ch. 196, § 1; P.L. 1984, ch. 122, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 40.1-4-11; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 14, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-1.10 - Alcoholism › Section 23-1.10-13. - Confidentiality of records — Availability for research.

§ 23-1.10-13. Confidentiality of records — Availability for research.
(a)
The registration and other records of treatment facilities shall remain confidential and are privileged to the patient.
(b)
Notwithstanding subsection (a), the director may make available information from patients’ records for purposes of research into the causes and treatment of alcoholism. Information under this subsection shall not be published in a way that discloses patients’ names or other identifying information.
History of Section.
P.L. 1951, ch. 2755, § 19; G.L. 1956, § 40-12-22; P.L. 1972, ch. 130, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 40.1-4-13; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 14, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-1.10 - Alcoholism › Section 23-1.10-14. - Visitation rights — Mail and other communications.

§ 23-1.10-14. Visitation rights — Mail and other communications.
(a)
Subject to reasonable rules regarding hours of visitation which the director may adopt, patients in any approved treatment facility shall be granted opportunities for adequate consultation with counsel, and for continuing contact with family and friends consistent with an effective treatment program.
(b)
Neither mail nor other communication to or from a patient in any approved treatment facility may be intercepted, read, or censored. The director may adopt reasonable rules regarding the use of telephone by patients in approved treatment facilities.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 130, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 40.1-4-14; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 14, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-1.10 - Alcoholism › Section 23-1.10-15. - Payment for treatment.

§ 23-1.10-15. Payment for treatment.
(a)
If treatment is provided by an approved public treatment facility and the patient has not paid the charge for that treatment, the department is entitled to any payment:
(1)
Received by the patient or to which he or she may be entitled because of the services rendered; and
(2)
From any public or private source available to the department because of the treatment provided to the patient.
(b)
A patient in an approved treatment facility, or the estate of the patient, or a person obligated to provide for the cost of treatment and having sufficient financial ability, is liable to the division for cost of maintenance and treatment of the patient in an approved treatment facility in accordance with established rates.
(c)
The director shall adopt rules governing financial ability that take into consideration the income, savings, and other personal and real property of the person required to pay, and any support being furnished by him or her to any person he or she is required by law to support.
History of Section.
P.L. 1951, ch. 2755, § 17; G.L. 1956, § 40-12-20; P.L. 1972, ch. 130, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 40.1-4-15; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 14, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-1.10 - Alcoholism › Section 23-1.10-16. - Limits on application of laws punishing intoxication.

§ 23-1.10-16. Limits on application of laws punishing intoxication.
(a)
Neither the state, municipality, nor other political subdivision of the state or municipality may adopt or enforce a law, ordinance, resolution, or rule having the force of law that includes drinking, being a common drunkard, or being found in an intoxicated condition as one of the elements of the offense giving rise to a criminal or civil penalty or sanction.
(b)
Neither the state, municipality, nor other political subdivision of the state or municipality shall interpret or apply any law of general application to circumvent the provision of subsection (a).
(c)
Nothing in this chapter affects any law, ordinance, resolution, or rule against drunken driving, driving under the influence of alcohol, or other similar offense involving the operation of a vehicle, aircraft, boat, machinery, or other equipment, or regarding the sale, purchase, dispensing, possessing, or use of alcoholic beverages at stated time and places or by a particular class of persons.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 130, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 40.1-4-16; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 14, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-1.10 - Alcoholism › Section 23-1.10-17. - Severability.

§ 23-1.10-17. Severability.
If any provision of this chapter or the application of that provision to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the invalidity does not affect other provisions or applications of the chapter which can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this end the provisions of this chapter are severable.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 130, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 40.1-4-17; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 14, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-1.10 - Alcoholism › Section 23-1.10-18. - Application of Administrative Procedures Act.

§ 23-1.10-18. Application of Administrative Procedures Act.
Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, the state Administrative Procedures Act, chapter 35 of title 42, applies to and governs all administrative action taken by the director.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 130, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 40.1-4-18; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 14, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-1.10 - Alcoholism › Section 23-1.10-19. - Rules and regulations.

§ 23-1.10-19. Rules and regulations.
All rules and regulations promulgated in accordance with the provisions of this chapter shall be adopted in accordance with the procedures specified in chapter 35 of title 42, the Administrative Procedures Act.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 130, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 40.1-4-19; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 14, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-1.10 - Alcoholism › Section 23-1.10-20. - Pilot alternative program established.

§ 23-1.10-20. Pilot alternative program established.
(a)
There is hereby created a program for individuals impaired by substance abuse related issues, as an alternative treatment/referral service to the emergency room department, to foster their entry into a continuum of care for treatment and recovery. This pilot program shall be an addition and shall not alter the comprehensive and coordinated program for the treatment of alcoholics and intoxicated persons as set forth in § 23-1.10-6.
(b)
As used in this section, the following words and terms shall have the following meanings:
(1)
“Department” means the Rhode Island department of behavioral healthcare, developmental disabilities and hospitals.
(2)
“Pilot program” means the program described in this section. The pilot program shall not be subject to subsections 23-1.10-10(a), (b), (c) and (d).
(3)
“Substance abuse related issues” means any of the symptoms that are caused by either active substance use, substance abuse/dependence or a combination of both.
(c)
No later than December 31, 2012, and subject to approval of the Rhode Island executive office of health and human services, the department shall present a proposal to the governor and general assembly to expand existing service(s), that shall result in services described in subsection (a) available twenty-four (24) hours a day, seven (7) days a week to implement the pilot program.
(d)
Subject to approval from the governor and general assembly and the receipt of required funds, the director shall commence the implementation of the pilot program.
(e)
The director may adopt such rules and regulations governing the management of the pilot program as he/she deems necessary to carry out the provisions of this section.
(f)
The pilot program shall have a duration of three (3) years, commencing on the date that the first licensed facility becomes operational.
(g)
The department shall provide an annual report of its findings and recommendations to the general assembly and governor no later than January 31 of each year beginning in 2014.
(h)
After three (3) years of operations, the department shall provide an analysis demonstrating outcomes related to the pilot program to the general assembly and governor.
History of Section.
P.L. 2012, ch. 257, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 265, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-1.11 - Needlestick Safety and Injury Prevention Act › Section 23-1.11-1. - Definitions.

§ 23-1.11-1. Definitions.
As used in this chapter, the term:
(1)
“Employer” means those individuals or corporations with employees who have the potential to be exposed to blood-borne pathogens through a needlestick or other contaminated sharps;
(2)
“Engineering controls” means controls including sharps disposal containers, self-sheathing needles, safer medical devices such as sharps with engineered sharps injury protections and needleless systems that isolate or remove the blood-borne pathogen hazard from the workplace;
(3)
“Exposure control plan” is a document, which shall be produced and reviewed and updated at least annually and whenever necessary to reflect new or modified tasks, and procedures, which affect occupational exposure and reflect employee positions concerning occupational exposure;
(4)
“Needleless system” means a device that does not use needles for: (i) the collection of bodily fluids or withdrawal of body fluids after initial venous or arterial access is established; (ii) the administration of medication or fluids; or (iii) any other procedure involving the potential for occupational exposure to blood-borne pathogens due to percutaneous injuries from contaminated sharps;
(5)
“Sharps with engineered sharps injury protections” means a non-needle sharps or a needle device used for withdrawing body fluids, accessing a vein or artery, or administering medications or other fluids with a built-in safety feature or mechanism that effectively reduces the risk of an exposure incident.
History of Section.
P.L. 2001, ch. 372, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 382, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-1.11 - Needlestick Safety and Injury Prevention Act › Section 23-1.11-2. - Purpose.

§ 23-1.11-2. Purpose.
The Needlestick Safety and Injury Prevention Act includes all aspects related to engineering controls, revision and updating of an exposure control plan and record keeping.
History of Section.
P.L. 2001, ch. 372, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 382, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-1.11 - Needlestick Safety and Injury Prevention Act › Section 23-1.11-3. - Devices.

§ 23-1.11-3. Devices.
Sharps with engineered sharps injury protections shall include an array of devices that make injury involving a contaminated sharps less likely, and include, but are not limited to, syringes with a sliding sheath that shields the attached needle after use; needles that retract into a syringe after use; shielded or retracting catheters used to access the bloodstream for intravenous administration of medications or fluids; and intravenous medication delivery systems that administer medications or fluids through a catheter port or connector site using a needle that is housed in a protective covering.
History of Section.
P.L. 2001, ch. 372, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 382, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-1.11 - Needlestick Safety and Injury Prevention Act › Section 23-1.11-4. - Needleless systems.

§ 23-1.11-4. Needleless systems.
Needleless systems provide an alternative to needles for the specified procedures, reducing the risk of percutaneous injury involving contaminated sharps and shall include, but are not limited to, intravenous medication delivery systems that administer medications or fluids through a catheter port or connector site using a blunt cannula or other non-needle connection, and jet injection systems that deliver subcutaneous or intramuscular injections of liquid medication through the skin without the use of a needle.
History of Section.
P.L. 2001, ch. 372, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 382, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-1.11 - Needlestick Safety and Injury Prevention Act › Section 23-1.11-5. - Engineering controls.

§ 23-1.11-5. Engineering controls.
Engineering controls shall include sharps with engineered sharps injury protections and needleless systems designed to reduce the risk of percutaneous exposure to blood-borne pathogens.
History of Section.
P.L. 2001, ch. 372, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 382, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-1.11 - Needlestick Safety and Injury Prevention Act › Section 23-1.11-6. - Exposure control plan.

§ 23-1.11-6. Exposure control plan.
An exposure control plan will include requirements that employers document consideration and implementation of the safer medical devices that are appropriate, commercially available, and effective. No one medical device is appropriate in all circumstances of use. For purposes of this standard, an appropriate safer medical device includes only devices whose use, based on reasonable judgment in individual cases, will not jeopardize patient or employee safety or be medically contraindicated; commercially available means available in the marketplace; and an effective safer medical device is a device that, based on reasonable judgment, will make an exposure incident involving a contaminated sharps less likely to occur in the application in which it is used. Prefilled units are exempt from this section until January 2003.
History of Section.
P.L. 2001, ch. 372, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 382, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-1.11 - Needlestick Safety and Injury Prevention Act › Section 23-1.11-7. - Employer requirement.

§ 23-1.11-7. Employer requirement.
Every employer is required to: (1) document annually in the exposure control plan consideration and implementation of appropriate commercially available and safer medical devices designed to eliminate or minimize occupational exposure to blood-borne pathogens; (2) solicit input from nonmanagerial employees responsible for direct patient care who are potentially exposed to injuries from contaminated sharps in the identification, evaluation, and selection of effective work practice controls and shall document the solicitation in the exposure control plan.
History of Section.
P.L. 2001, ch. 372, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 382, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-1.11 - Needlestick Safety and Injury Prevention Act › Section 23-1.11-8. - Sharps injury log.

§ 23-1.11-8. Sharps injury log.
To serve as a tool in identifying high risk areas and evaluating devices, a sharps injury log will be established and maintained by the employer. The log will be for percutaneous injuries from contaminated sharps. The information in the sharps injury log shall be recorded and maintained in such manner as to protect the confidentiality of the injured employee. The sharps injury log shall contain, at a minimum: (1) the type and brand of device involved in the incident, (2) the department work area where the exposure incident occurred, and (3) an explanation of how the incident occurred. The sharps injury log will be maintained for a period of five (5) years.
History of Section.
P.L. 2001, ch. 372, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 382, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-2 - Local Health Officers › Section 23-2-16. - Use of words referring to local health officers or local health boards — Meaning in general laws.

§ 23-2-16. Use of words referring to local health officers or local health boards — Meaning in general laws.
Whenever in the general laws the words “local health officers,” “health officer” or “board of health” or any other word or phrase connoting a local health board or local health officer is used, appropriate wording shall be substituted so as to vest the power and authority in the state department of health or the director of health; provided, however, that nothing contained in this section shall be construed or interpreted to mean that a city or town shall not appoint a health officer or some other official to carry out the provisions of chapter 9 of this title.
History of Section.
P.L. 1964, ch. 45, § 5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-3 - Vital Records › Section 23-3-2. - Division of vital records and statewide system.

§ 23-3-2. Division of vital records and statewide system.
There is established in the state department of health a division of vital records that shall install, maintain, and operate the system of vital records throughout this state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1961, ch. 87, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-3 - Vital Records › Section 23-3-3. - Rules and regulations.

§ 23-3-3. Rules and regulations.
The state director of health is authorized after notice and public hearing to adopt, amend, and repeal rules and regulations for the purpose of carrying out the provisions of this chapter. Those rules and regulations shall take effect thirty (30) days after publication.
History of Section.
P.L. 1961, ch. 87, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-3 - Vital Records › Section 23-3-4. - Appointment of state registrar of vital records.

§ 23-3-4. Appointment of state registrar of vital records.
The director of health shall appoint the chief of the division of vital records in accordance with civil service laws and regulations, who shall be known as the state registrar of vital records and shall carry out the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1961, ch. 87, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-3 - Vital Records › Section 23-3-5. - Duties of state registrar of vital records.

§ 23-3-5. Duties of state registrar of vital records.
(a)
The state registrar of vital records shall:
(1)
Administer and enforce this chapter and the rules and regulations issued under this chapter, and issue instructions for the efficient administration of the statewide system of vital records.
(2)
Direct and supervise the statewide system of vital records and the division of vital records and be custodian of its records.
(3)
Direct, supervise, and control the activities of local registrars and the activities of town and city clerks related to the operation of the vital records system.
(4)
Prescribe, with approval of the state director of health, and distribute any forms that are required by this chapter and the rules and regulations issued under this chapter.
(5)
Prepare and publish annual reports of vital records of this state and any other reports that may be required by the state director of health.
(6)
Electronically transmit to the office of the secretary of state, on a monthly basis, a list of any reported deaths of a person or persons eighteen (18) years of age or older, and maintain a list of those deceased persons.
(7)
Provide a copy on alkaline paper or an electronic record of each certificate of birth, death, and marriage to the city or town clerk before the tenth (10th) day of the month after the certificate is received by the division of vital records as authorized by regulations.
(8)(i)
Flag birth certificates of missing children and perform all other acts and duties required to be performed by him or her pursuant to chapter 28.8 of title 42.
(ii)
Upon receipt of information pursuant to § 42-28.8-3, provide the local registrars of the several cities and towns with that information.
(9)
Direct, supervise, and control the transition from a paper-based system to an electronic system.
(b)
The state registrar of vital records, with the approval of the director of health, may appoint a deputy state registrar and may delegate any functions and duties vested in him or her to employees of the division of vital records and to local registrars that he or she deems necessary or expedient.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 100, § 2; G.L. 1909, ch. 121, § 2; P.L. 1915, ch. 1239, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 166, § 2; P.L. 1923, ch. 436, § 1; P.L. 1929, ch. 1432, § 13; P.L. 1935, ch. 2250, § 110; G.L. 1938, ch. 268, §§ 2, 25; impl. am. P.L. 1939, ch. 660, §§ 65, 180; P.L. 1942, ch. 1191, § 1; G.L. 1956, §§ 23-3-38, 23-3-41; G.L. 1956, § 23-3-5; P.L. 1961, ch. 87, § 1; P.L. 1978, ch. 191, § 2; P.L. 1982, ch. 385, § 1; P.L. 1986, ch. 252, § 3; P.L. 1991, ch. 209, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 132, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 404, § 26; P.L. 2000, ch. 164, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 164, § 2; P.L. 2008, ch. 177, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-3 - Vital Records › Section 23-3-5.1. - Transfer of public historical documents.

§ 23-3-5.1. Transfer of public historical documents.
At the end of each calendar year, records of births and marriages which have occurred one hundred (100) years or more from the date of transfer and deaths which have occurred fifty (50) years or more from the date of transfer, shall be permanently transferred by the state registrar of vital records to the custody of the state archives under control of the secretary of state who may promulgate rules and regulations pertaining to these public historical documents.
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 118, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 282, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-3 - Vital Records › Section 23-3-6. - Local registrars.

§ 23-3-6. Local registrars.
The town clerks of the several towns or any person whom the city council of any city or the town council of any town may appoint for that purpose shall be known as the local registrar, and he or she shall perform the duties provided for in § 23-3-7.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 100, § 1; G.L. 1909, ch. 121, § 1; P.L. 1921, ch. 2096, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 166, § 1; P.L. 1933, ch. 2050, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 268, § 1; impl. am. P.L. 1939, ch. 660, § 180; G.L. 1956, § 23-3-1; G.L., § 23-3-6; P.L. 1961, ch. 87, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-3 - Vital Records › Section 23-3-7. - Duties of local registrars.

§ 23-3-7. Duties of local registrars.
The local registrar, with respect to his or her respective city or town, shall:
(1)
Administer and enforce the provisions of this chapter and instructions, rules, and regulations issued under this chapter.
(2)
Require that certificates be completed and filed in accordance with provisions of this chapter and the rules and regulations issued under this chapter.
(3)
Transmit on or before the tenth (10th) day of each month the certificates, reports, or other returns filed with him or her for the preceding month to the state registrar of vital records or more frequently when directed to do so by the state registrar of vital records.
(4)
Maintain records, make reports, and perform all other duties that may be required by the state registrar of vital records.
(5)
Flag birth certificates of missing children and perform all other acts and duties required to be performed pursuant to chapter 28.8 of title 42.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 100, § 1; G.L. 1909, ch. 121, § 1; P.L. 1921, ch. 2096, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 166, § 1; P.L. 1933, ch. 2050, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 268, § 1; impl. am. P.L. 1939, ch. 660, § 180; G.L. 1956, § 23-3-1; G.L. 1956, § 23-3-7; P.L. 1961, ch. 87, § 1; P.L. 1965, ch. 176, § 1; P.L. 1986, ch. 252, § 3; P.L. 2008, ch. 164, § 2; P.L. 2008, ch. 177, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-3 - Vital Records › Section 23-3-8. - Compensation of local registrars.

§ 23-3-8. Compensation of local registrars.
(a)
Each local registrar not otherwise compensated out of the respective town or city treasuries for this purpose shall be paid by the town or city the sum of twenty cents ($0.20) for each certificate of birth, death, fetal death, or marriage registered by him or her and transmitted to the state registrar of vital records in accordance with the rules and regulations issued under this chapter.
(b)
If no birth, death, fetal death, or marriage is registered by him or her during any calendar month, the local registrar shall report that fact to the state registrar of vital records.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 100, §§ 12, 19; G.L. 1909, ch. 121, §§ 12, 19; P.L. 1910, ch. 575, § 6; G.L. 1923, ch. 166, §§ 11, 16; P.L. 1930, ch. 1603, § 1; P.L. 1932, ch. 1938, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 268, §§ 10, 17; P.L. 1942, ch. 1121, § 1; G.L. 1956, §§ 23-3-26, 23-3-27; G.L. 1956, § 23-3-8; P.L. 1961, ch. 87, § 1.