reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-42 - Abandoned Motor Vehicles › Section 31-42-6. - Unlicensed junkyards.

§ 31-42-6. Unlicensed junkyards.
When the director of the department of environmental management determines that an unlicensed junkyard exists, he or she may order the demolition and removal of the junked motor vehicles which are contained on the unlicensed premises. Notice of the order shall be sent by ordinary mail to the last and usual place of abode of the owner of the land where the unlicensed junkyard exists to demolish and remove the junked motor vehicles within a prescribed time (not to exceed three (3) months). If the demolition and removal of the junked motor vehicles does not occur within the time specified in the order, the director of the department of environmental management may then enter upon the premises or establishment and demolish and remove the junked motor vehicles without further notice.
History of Section.
P.L. 1971, ch. 234, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-42 - Abandoned Motor Vehicles › Section 31-42-7. - Disposal to demolishers.

§ 31-42-7. Disposal to demolishers.
(a)
Any person, firm, corporation, or unit of government upon whose property or in whose possession is found any abandoned motor vehicle, or any person being the owner of a motor vehicle whose registration is faulty, lost, or destroyed may apply to the police department of the jurisdiction in which the vehicle is situated for authority to sell, give away, or dispose of the vehicle to a demolisher.
(b)
The application shall set out the name and address of the applicant, the year, make, model, and serial number of the motor vehicle, if ascertainable, together with any other identifying features, and shall contain a concise statement of the facts surrounding the abandonment, or that the registration of the motor vehicle is lost or destroyed, or the reasons for the defect in registration of the owner. The applicant shall execute an affidavit stating that the facts alleged in it are true and that no material fact has been withheld.
(c)
If the police department finds that the application is executed in proper form, and shows that the motor vehicle has been abandoned upon the property of the applicant or if it shows that the motor vehicle is not abandoned but that the applicant appears to be the rightful owner, the police department shall follow the notification procedures set forth in § 31-42-3.
(d)
If the abandoned motor vehicle is not reclaimed in accordance with § 31-42-3, the police department shall give the applicant a certificate of authority to sell the motor vehicle to any demolisher for demolition, wrecking, or dismantling. The demolisher shall accept the certificate in lieu of the registration of the motor vehicle.
(e)
Notwithstanding any provisions of this chapter, the general laws of the state of Rhode Island, public laws of the state of Rhode Island, or municipal ordinances, any person, firm, corporation, or unit of government upon whose property or in whose possession is found any abandoned motor vehicle, or any person who is the owner of a motor vehicle whose registration is faulty, lost, or destroyed, may dispose of the motor vehicle to a demolisher without a registration and without notification procedure of § 31-42-3, if the motor vehicle is over eight (8) years old or has no engine or is otherwise totally inoperable. Any demolisher who purchases or acquires any motor vehicle for the purpose of demolition and removal may demolish it on the premises where they are located.
History of Section.
P.L. 1971, ch. 234, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-42 - Abandoned Motor Vehicles › Section 31-42-8. - Duties of demolishers.

§ 31-42-8. Duties of demolishers.
(a)
Any demolisher who purchases or otherwise acquires a motor vehicle for purposes of wrecking, dismantling, or demolition shall not be required to obtain a registration for the motor vehicle in his or her own name. After the motor vehicle has been demolished, processed, or changed so that it physically is no longer a motor vehicle, the demolisher shall surrender for cancellation the registration or auction sales receipt. The state division of motor vehicles shall issue any forms, rules, and regulations governing the surrender of auction sales receipts and registrations that are appropriate.
(b)
A demolisher shall keep an accurate and complete record of all motor vehicles purchased or received by the demolisher in the course of his or her business. These records shall contain the name and address of the person from whom the motor vehicle was purchased or received and the date when the purchases or receipts occurred. The records shall be open for inspection by any police department at any time during normal business hours. Any record required by this section shall be kept by the demolisher for at least one year after the transaction to which it applies.
History of Section.
P.L. 1971, ch. 234, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-42 - Abandoned Motor Vehicles › Section 31-42-9. - Unidentifiable motor vehicles and/or parts.

§ 31-42-9. Unidentifiable motor vehicles and/or parts.
Notwithstanding the age of a motor vehicle and/or part from which all identifying numbers have been removed so that the identity of the motor vehicle and/or part and its owner cannot be determined, the motor vehicle and/or part shall be subject to a forfeiture hearing before a judge sitting in the district court. After this hearing, the motor vehicle and/or part shall be forfeited to the unit of government that recovered it. The court may also order the division of motor vehicles to issue a special vehicle identification number and an appropriate title certificate for a forfeited motor vehicle.
History of Section.
P.L. 1983, ch. 221, § 12; P.L. 1984, ch. 263, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-42 - Abandoned Motor Vehicles › Section 31-42-10. - Repealed.

§ 31-42-10. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 191, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 1994, ch. 328, § 2, effective July 12, 1994.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-42 - Abandoned Motor Vehicles › Section 31-42-11. - Penalties — Costs.

§ 31-42-11. Penalties — Costs.
Any person who violates the provisions of this chapter regarding abandoned motor vehicles on private property, shall be fined not more than five hundred dollars ($500). In addition, the violator shall be responsible for all costs relating to the approval and disposal of the abandoned motor vehicle paid by the private property owner or local municipality.
History of Section.
P.L. 1989, ch. 236, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-42 - Abandoned Motor Vehicles › Section 31-42-12. - City of Pawtucket — Designee.

§ 31-42-12. City of Pawtucket — Designee.
In the city of Pawtucket, the police department or its designee shall have the authority to carry out the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2002, ch. 80, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-43 - Administrative Adjudication Court [Repealed.] › Section 31-43-1 - — 31-43-1.2. Repealed.

§ 31-43-1 — 31-43-1.2. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 453, § 33; P.L. 1994, ch. 42, § 7; Repealed by P.L. 1999, ch. 218, art. 1, § 1, effective July 1, 1999.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-43 - Administrative Adjudication Court [Repealed.] › Section 31-43-1.3. - Repealed.

§ 31-43-1.3. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 453, § 3; Repealed by P.L. 1998, ch. 91, § 2, effective October 1, 1998.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-43 - Administrative Adjudication Court [Repealed.] › Section 31-43-2 - — 31-43-7. Repealed.

§ 31-43-2 — 31-43-7. Repealed.
History of Section.
These sections (P.L. 1974, ch. 41, § 1; P.L. 1975, ch. 122, § 1; P.L. 1976, ch. 140, § 17; P.L. 1978, ch. 217, §§ 2, 4; P.L. 1980, ch. 320, § 1; P.L. 1981, ch. 145, § 1; P.L. 1981, ch. 224, § 1; P.L. 1982, ch. 222, § 1; P.L. 1982, ch. 400, § 1; P.L. 1983, ch. 81, § 2; P.L. 1983, ch. 189, §§ 2, 3; P.L. 1984, ch. 228, § 2; P.L. 1985, ch. 188, § 1; P.L. 1987, ch. 375, § 2; P.L. 1987, ch. 501, § 1; P.L. 1987, ch. 570, § 1; P.L. 1988, ch. 339, § 1; P.L. 1988, ch. 569, § 3; P.L. 1989, ch. 274, § 3; P.L. 1990, ch. 65, art. 57, § 4; P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 37, § 5; P.L. 1992, ch. 453, § 4; P.L. 1992, ch. 488, § 3; P.L. 1994, ch. 70, art. 35, § 8; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 40, § 105; Repealed by P.L. 1999, ch. 218, art. 1, § 1, effective July 1, 1999.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-43 - Administrative Adjudication Court [Repealed.] › Section 31-43-8. - Repealed.

§ 31-43-8. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1983, ch. 189, § 2; Repealed by P.L. 1992, ch. 453, § 5, effective September 1, 1992.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-43 - Administrative Adjudication Court [Repealed.] › Section 31-43-9 - — 31-43-17. Repealed.

§ 31-43-9 — 31-43-17. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1983, ch. 218, § 1; P.L. 1984, ch. 376, § 2; P.L. 1985, ch. 458, § 2; P.L. 1987, ch. 118, art. 15, § 5; P.L. 1988, ch. 129, art. 22, § 5; P.L. 1989, ch. 76, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 494, §§ 9, 10; P.L. 1990, ch. 507, §§ 8, 9; P.L. 1991, ch. 129, § 6; P.L. 1991, ch. 174, § 6; P.L. 1992, ch. 453, §§ 6, 7; P.L. 1995, ch. 323, § 40; P.L. 1997, ch. 93, §§ 5, 6; Repealed by P.L. 1999, ch. 218, art. 1, § 1, effective July 1, 1999.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44 - Mobile and Manufactured Homes › Section 31-44-1.1 - — 31-44-1.3. Repealed.

§ 31-44-1.1 — 31-44-1.3. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 216, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 309, §§ 4, 5; Repealed by P.L. 1995, ch. 134, § 1, effective July 1, 1995.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44 - Mobile and Manufactured Homes › Section 31-44-1.4. - Powers and duties of department.

§ 31-44-1.4. Powers and duties of department.
(a)
The department may:
(1)
Interpret and implement the provisions of this chapter and the applicable provisions of chapter 44.1 of this title;
(2)
Act for the purpose of promoting a uniform policy relating to all phases of mobile and manufactured home business and use;
(3)
Monitor and determine the sufficiency of the state Mobile and Manufactured Home Act under this chapter as well as local mobile and manufactured home ordinances which are designed to provide local governments with superintending control over mobile and manufactured home business or use and to make recommendations to it; and
(4)
Conduct public hearings relating to these advisory responsibilities.
(b)
The department shall:
(1)
Monitor the implementation of statutes and regulations affecting mobile and manufactured homes;
(2)
Make investigations and conduct or authorize periodic surveys to determine compliance with this chapter;
(3)
All departments of state government are authorized to provide assistance to the department as the department requires;
(4)
Conduct a public education program to improve public perception and local acceptance of mobile and manufactured homes and to promote them as affordable housing; and
(5)
Study additional issues related to mobile and manufactured homes and periodically disseminate acquired information.
History of Section.
P.L. 1984, ch. 382, § 2; P.L. 1991, ch. 216, § 2; P.L. 1991, ch. 357, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 309, § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 134, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44 - Mobile and Manufactured Homes › Section 31-44-1.5. - Mobile and manufactured home advisory information.

§ 31-44-1.5. Mobile and manufactured home advisory information.
The department may publish and promote mobile and manufactured home advisory information based on this chapter and other issues as set forth in § 31-44-1.4. The information shall consist of:
(1)
A general interpretation of the rights and responsibilities of mobile and manufactured home park licensees and mobile home owners and residents as established by this chapter; and
(2)
Local state and federal standards to protect the health, safety, and welfare of mobile and manufactured home park residents.
History of Section.
P.L. 1984, ch. 382, § 2; P.L. 1993, ch. 309, § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 134, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44 - Mobile and Manufactured Homes › Section 31-44-1.6. - Fees and charges for licenses.

§ 31-44-1.6. Fees and charges for licenses.
(a)
The department of business regulation shall promulgate rules to establish fees and charges for the issuance of licenses or permits required in this chapter.
(b)
The fees and charges under this chapter shall be applied solely to fulfilling the various responsibilities of the department as specified within this chapter.
(c)
All fees and charges collected by the department under this chapter shall be deposited as general revenues.
History of Section.
P.L. 1984, ch. 382, § 2; P.L. 1993, ch. 309, § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 40, § 106; P.L. 1999, ch. 248, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44 - Mobile and Manufactured Homes › Section 31-44-1.7. - Mobile and manufactured home park operation — License.

§ 31-44-1.7. Mobile and manufactured home park operation — License.
(a)
A person shall not operate a mobile and manufactured home park without a license.
(b)
Upon completion, review, and approval of certifications, the department of business regulation shall grant a license to operate a mobile and manufactured home park.
(c)
An annual license shall be granted and renewed by the department based upon the filing of:
(1)
Leases and regulations that are applicable to the park;
(2)
Certification by the municipality in which the park is located that it is in compliance with all applicable land use regulations of the municipality;
(3)
Certification from the appropriate state agencies or municipal departments that the park has an adequate and operational sewage disposal system and water supply and that all applicable state and local taxes have been paid;
(4)
Payment of an annual fee of fifteen dollars ($15.00) per occupied site in the park; and
(5)
The applicant files a fee schedule with the department.
(d)
Certifications for individual sewage disposal systems (ISDS) regulated by the department of environmental management shall be provided by an ISDS designer, licensed pursuant to § 5-56-1, who possesses the appropriate class of license for the type and size of system to be certified and any costs for these certifications shall be the responsibility of the licensee. The director of the department may by regulation provide for additional requirements and may place reasonable conditions on the grant of any license.
(e)
If a person submits a timely application for renewal of a license and pays the appropriate fees, the person may continue to operate a mobile and manufactured home park unless notified that the application for renewal is not approved. In the event anyone is denied a license he or she will be afforded a hearing before the department.
History of Section.
P.L. 1984, ch. 382, § 2; P.L. 1993, ch. 309, § 1; P.L. 1998, ch. 130, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 248, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44 - Mobile and Manufactured Homes › Section 31-44-1.8. - Survey of parks.

§ 31-44-1.8. Survey of parks.
The department of health or its authorized representatives shall conduct a survey every three (3) years of mobile and manufactured home parks.
History of Section.
P.L. 1984, ch. 382, § 2; P.L. 1985, ch. 487, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44 - Mobile and Manufactured Homes › Section 31-44-2. - Evictions — Termination of tenancy.

§ 31-44-2. Evictions — Termination of tenancy.
(a)
A tenancy may be terminated by a park owner or operator pursuant to chapter 18 of title 34, provided, that jurisdiction as it relates to this chapter shall be in the district court but subject to one or more of the following reasons and limitations which shall take precedence over any conflicting state statute or local ordinance:
(1)
Nonpayment of rent, utility charges, or reasonable incidental service charges. No action for possession shall be maintained if prior to the expiration of a notice to quit the tenant shall pay or tender all arrearages due, including a late charge of five percent (5%) of the monthly rent due after a seven (7) day grace period for the rental payment has elapsed.
(2)
Failure of the tenant to comply with local ordinances or state or federal law or regulations relating to mobile and manufactured homes or mobile and manufactured home parks. The tenant is first given written notice of his or her failure to comply with the laws or regulations and a reasonable opportunity thereafter to comply with the laws or regulations.
(3)
Damage by the tenant to the demised property, reasonable wear and tear excepted.
(4)
Repeated conduct of the tenant, upon the mobile and manufactured home park premises, which disturbs the peace and quiet of other tenants in the mobile and manufactured home park.
(5)
Failure of the tenant to comply with reasonable written rules and regulations of the mobile and manufactured home park as established by the park owner or operator in the rental agreement at the inception of the tenancy or as amended subsequently with the written acknowledgement that the tenant has seen the amended rules, or without his or her consent upon three (3) months written notice; provided that the tenant is first given written notice of his or her failure to comply and a reasonable opportunity thereafter to comply with the rules and regulations. Nothing in this section, however, shall be construed to permit a park owner or operator to vary the terms of a written or oral rental agreement without notification to the tenant.
(6)
Condemnation or change of use of the mobile and manufactured home park.
(b)
No tenancy, however created, in a mobile and manufactured home park may be terminated by a mobile and manufactured home park owner or operator except upon giving notice in writing to the tenant in the manner prescribed in this chapter to remove from the premises within a period of not less than sixty (60) days; provided that upon grounds of nonpayment of rent, a tenancy may be terminated upon giving thirty (30) days notice.
History of Section.
P.L. 1984, ch. 382, § 2; P.L. 1993, ch. 309, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 109, § 45.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44 - Mobile and Manufactured Homes › Section 31-44-3.3. - Future qualified sale of mobile- and manufactured-home community.

§ 31-44-3.3. Future qualified sale of mobile- and manufactured-home community.
The qualified sale of a mobile- or manufactured-home community to a resident-owned organization is exempt from the real estate conveyance tax imposed under chapter 44-25.
History of Section.
P.L. 2012, ch. 364, § 2; P.L. 2012, ch. 391, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44 - Mobile and Manufactured Homes › Section 31-44-4.1. - Recording of sale or transfer documents — Penalties.

§ 31-44-4.1. Recording of sale or transfer documents — Penalties.
Every deed, instrument, or writing by which an interest in any mobile or manufactured home is granted, assigned, transferred, or otherwise conveyed to, or vested in, a purchaser or purchasers, or any other person or persons, shall be filed with the recorder of deeds of the city or town in within which the mobile home or manufactured home is located, within ten (10) days after execution of the deed instrument, or writing. The fee for the filing shall be in accordance with § 34-13-7. The city or town shall assess a fine to be determined by each city or town for failure to comply with the provisions of this section.
History of Section.
P.L. 1996, ch. 319, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44 - Mobile and Manufactured Homes › Section 31-44-5. - Reprisals.

§ 31-44-5. Reprisals.
(a)
No licensee shall take reprisal(s) against a resident or prospective resident or association formed pursuant to § 31-44-3.1.
(b)
An increase in rent, nonrenewal of lease, refusal to offer a lease, or termination of tenancy, taken by a licensee against a resident, prospective resident, or association within six (6) months after the resident, prospective resident, or association has taken any protected lawful action, shall create a rebuttable presumption that the act by the licensee is a reprisal. Reprisal may be pleaded as a defense in any court proceeding brought against a resident or prospective resident after he or she has taken any protected lawful action.
(c)
In addition to any other remedy under this chapter, a resident, prospective resident, or association who has been the subject of a reprisal shall be entitled to the remedies provided for retaliatory actions in § 34-18-46.
History of Section.
P.L. 1984, ch. 382, § 2; P.L. 1990, ch. 307, § 1; P.L. 1994, ch. 182, § 1; P.L. 1998, ch. 57, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44 - Mobile and Manufactured Homes › Section 31-44-6. - Notice of judgment.

§ 31-44-6. Notice of judgment.
In any action to enforce the provisions of this chapter, the clerk of the court shall mail copies of any final judgment, decree, permanent injunction, arbitration decision or order of the court upon the entry of it to the attorney general and if licenses are involved, the department of business regulation.
History of Section.
P.L. 1984, ch. 382, § 2; P.L. 1993, ch. 309, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44 - Mobile and Manufactured Homes › Section 31-44-7.1. - Security deposits.

§ 31-44-7.1. Security deposits.
In any rental agreement for the lease of a mobile home in which the licensee requires the payment of a security deposit by the resident:
(1)
The deposit shall accumulate interest on an annual basis at the rate of three percent (3%).
(2)
No deposit will be required which is more than the amount of one month’s rent.
(3)
The interest shall be paid to the resident annually or upon termination of the rental.
(4)
Upon termination of the rental, the licensee shall return the deposit along with accumulated interest within thirty (30) days, or shall provide the resident with a written itemized list of damages caused by the resident during the rental, other than ordinary wear and tear, and return to the resident the difference, if any, between the deposit and interest and the damages sustained.
(5)
The resident shall provide the licensee with a forwarding address upon vacating the premises so as to permit the licensee to return the deposit.
(6)
If the licensee fails to either return the deposit within thirty (30) days or pay interest on it, he or she shall be liable for damages not to exceed twice the amount of the deposit and three (3) times the amount of interest due.
(7)
Any security deposits received by the licensee shall be deposited in a savings account and earmarked specifically as a security deposit account, and that fund shall not be used by the licensee for any purpose except as provided in subdivision (4) of this section.
(8)
No security deposit shall be required for the rental of a mobile home lot or space.
History of Section.
P.L. 1984, ch. 382, § 2; P.L. 1990, ch. 308, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 309, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 109, § 45.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44 - Mobile and Manufactured Homes › Section 31-44-7.2. - Trailer parks located within the town of Exeter.

§ 31-44-7.2. Trailer parks located within the town of Exeter.
Any agreement for the lease of a mobile home or a mobile home lot or space located within the town of Exeter and offered pursuant to the provisions of § 31-44-7, must be in writing and shall not be executed unless each term of it either shall have been completed in full or shall contain a statement that the terms may not be applicable. All lease agreements executed pursuant to the provisions of this section shall be executed in duplicate original, one of which shall be provided to the lessee within thirty (30) days of its execution.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 422, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44 - Mobile and Manufactured Homes › Section 31-44-8. - Notice required by law.

§ 31-44-8. Notice required by law.
The following notice must be given by the licensee to the tenant prior to occupancy:
“The terms of your tenancy must be in accordance with the Rhode Island Mobile and Manufactured Home Act, title 31, chapter 44. Section 31-44-3 requires all the rules and regulations governing your tenancy to be fair and reasonable. Unreasonable rules, or those not in compliance with § 31-44-3, cannot be enforced against you.
“No licensee may offer a mobile and manufactured home or a mobile and manufactured home space or lot for rent without showing to the prospective resident a copy of the written lease before the resident occupies that mobile and manufactured home space or lot. No licensee may rent a mobile and manufactured home or mobile and manufactured home space or lot until a written lease has been signed by the resident and the owner. The term of the lease shall not be less than one year unless the resident requests, in writing, a term for less than one year, or requests in writing that he or she does not desire a written lease.
“The licensee of this park shall not require you to deal exclusively with a certain fuel dealer or other merchant for goods or services in connection with the use or occupancy of your mobile and manufactured home lot unless that restriction is necessary to protect the health, safety, or welfare of mobile and manufactured home residents in the park. If you are required to deal with a certain dealer or merchant, the price you pay for such goods or services may not be more than the prevailing price in this locality for similar goods and services.
“An increase in fees or rent, nonrenewal of lease, refusal to offer a lease, or termination of tenancy which is taken against you by a licensee as a penalty for reporting a violation of the Mobile and Manufactured Home Act or of any applicable building or health code, or for any other justified complaint to a governmental authority is a reprisal and is prohibited by law.”
History of Section.
P.L. 1984, ch. 382, § 2; P.L. 1993, ch. 309, § 1; P.L. 2009, ch. 119, § 1; P.L. 2009, ch. 146, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44 - Mobile and Manufactured Homes › Section 31-44-9. - Enforceability.

§ 31-44-9. Enforceability.
(a)
Any provision of this chapter and any provision of a license issued pursuant to this chapter may be enforced by the department of business regulation. In addition to and notwithstanding any action taken by or pending at the department of business regulation, any resident of a mobile home park may seek to enforce any provision of a license or this chapter by civil action in the court exercising jurisdiction over the subject matter. However, failure to comply with tax laws and violations of land use regulations and water supply and sewage disposal requirements shall be subject to the jurisdiction of and shall be enforceable by, the municipality in which the park is located and/or the state agency having regulatory authority over the matter. (b) Any park owner or operator who violates any of the provisions of §§ 31-44-3, 31-44-3.1, 31-44-3.2, 31-44-4, 31-44-5, 31-44-7, 31-44-7.1, 31-44-7.2, 31-44-8 and 31-44-13 shall be deemed to have engaged in an unfair and deceptive trade practice under § 6-13.1-2 and, in addition to other remedies, shall be subject to the enforcement provisions of that chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1984, ch. 382, § 2; P.L. 1993, ch. 309, § 1; P.L. 1994, ch. 182, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44 - Mobile and Manufactured Homes › Section 31-44-9.1. - Remedies.

§ 31-44-9.1. Remedies.
In addition to any other remedy authorized by law, equity or regulation, the director of the department may order, following notice and opportunity to be heard, the owner and residents of any mobile and manufactured home park to pay monthly rents directly to an interest bearing escrow account established by and under the control of, the director and may make the payment of those amounts to the owner of the mobile and manufactured home park contingent on the owner’s submission of satisfactory evidence of compliance with all orders of the director. Upon submission of evidence of compliance, the director shall promptly cause any escrowed rents to be paid to the owner.
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 309, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44 - Mobile and Manufactured Homes › Section 31-44-9.2. - Investigations.

§ 31-44-9.2. Investigations.
When, in the opinion of the director, sufficient cause exists to begin an investigation of alleged violations of any provision of this chapter or a license issued pursuant to this chapter, the director may commence an investigation of any act or practice or failure to act of any mobile and manufactured home park owner or operator and may bill the costs of the investigation to the mobile home park owner or operator. However, the investigation fees payable under this section shall not exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000) in any one calendar year unless the director petitions the superior court for the ability to continue the investigation, at which time the director shall demonstrate to the court’s satisfaction that further investigation is warranted, whereby the fees may exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000).
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 309, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44 - Mobile and Manufactured Homes › Section 31-44-10. - Penalty.

§ 31-44-10. Penalty.
Any person who violates the licensing provisions of this chapter may be fined by the department an amount not in excess of five thousand dollars ($5,000), lose their license according to prescribed procedure, after a hearing. Provided, further, any person violating any of the provisions of this chapter may also be fined by the appropriate court according to existing court procedure.
History of Section.
P.L. 1984, ch. 382, § 2; P.L. 1993, ch. 309, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 248, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44 - Mobile and Manufactured Homes › Section 31-44-11. - Fiscal autonomy.

§ 31-44-11. Fiscal autonomy.
All license and permit fees collected pursuant to this chapter, and any fines collected by the department of business regulation for violations related to licenses and permits shall be held and used as specified under § 31-44-1.6. Any revenue received in excess of the department’s expenses used as specified in this chapter shall be carried forward as specified under § 31-44-1.6(c).
History of Section.
P.L. 1984, ch. 382, § 2; P.L. 1993, ch. 309, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44 - Mobile and Manufactured Homes › Section 31-44-12. - Severability.

§ 31-44-12. Severability.
If the provisions of this chapter or its application to any person or circumstances is held invalid, that invalidity shall not affect other provisions or applications of this chapter which can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this end, the provisions of this chapter are declared to be severable.
History of Section.
P.L. 1984, ch. 382, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44 - Mobile and Manufactured Homes › Section 31-44-13. - Right of mobile home owners to peaceably assemble — Right to communicate.

§ 31-44-13. Right of mobile home owners to peaceably assemble — Right to communicate.
(a)
No provision contained in any bylaw, rental agreement, regulation, or rule pertaining to a mobile home park shall infringe upon the right of the mobile home owners to peaceably assemble in an open public meeting for any lawful purpose, at reasonable times and in a reasonable manner, in the common areas or recreational areas of the mobile home park.
(b)
No provisions contained in any bylaw, rental agreement, regulation, or rule pertaining to a mobile home park shall infringe upon the right of the mobile home owners or tenants to communicate or assemble among themselves, at reasonable times and in a reasonable manner, for the purpose of discussing any problems relative to the mobile home park. The discussions may be held in the common areas or recreational areas of the park, including halls or centers, or in any resident’s home. In addition, the park owner or developer may not unreasonably restrict the use of any facility, including the use of utilities, when requested. Written notice must be provided to the mobile home park management and/or owner of the time and place for the assembly. The assembly shall be open to all park residents.
(c)
No provision contained in any bylaw, rental agreement, regulation, or rule pertaining to a mobile home park shall prohibit any mobile home owner of the mobile home park from canvassing mobile home owners of the mobile home park for the purposes described in this subsection. For the purposes of this subsection, the term “canvassing” includes an oral or written request; the distribution, circulation, posting, or publication of a notice; or a general announcement requesting the payment of membership dues or other matters relevant to the membership, federation, or organization. Canvassing shall be done at a reasonable time or times and in a reasonable manner. It is the intent of the legislature, through the enactment of this subsection, to prohibit any owner, developer, or manager of a mobile and manufactured home park from prohibiting free communication among mobile home owners or tenants in the guise of regulations or rules restricting or limiting canvassing for association, federation, or organization dues or other association, federation, or organization matters.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 160, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44 - Mobile and Manufactured Homes › Section 31-44-15. - Purchase requirement.

§ 31-44-15. Purchase requirement.
(a)
All dealers and purchasers of new manufactured homes shall present or buy only housing urban and development (HUD) approved and compliant manufactured structures.
(b)
All dealers and purchasers of new manufactured homes are required to record with the local building official data plate wind zone information as part of the installation application. Local building officials shall consider data plate wind zone information as part of their inspection and enforcement process.
(c)
Owners of a home in a mobile- and manufactured-home park and owners of vacant lots in a mobile- and manufactured-home park shall not be prevented from replacing their existing home or placing a new home on a vacant lot notwithstanding any local zoning or land use ordinance to the contrary enacted subsequent to the establishment of the legally recognized lot on which the home is to be placed so long as all local and state building standards are satisfied and permits obtained.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 269, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 262, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 428, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44 - Mobile and Manufactured Homes › Section 31-44-16. - Department of business regulation to hear matters.

§ 31-44-16. Department of business regulation to hear matters.
(a)
The director of the department of business regulation, or his or her designee, shall hear matters involving mobile and manufactured housing park rules, specifically this chapter. The director shall not have jurisdiction over issues relative to rent increases or jurisdiction over evictions.
(b)
Nothing in this section shall preclude the right of the director to use the services of a mediator to resolve a dispute involving mobile/manufactured housing park rules.
History of Section.
P.L. 1996, ch. 94, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44 - Mobile and Manufactured Homes › Section 31-44-17. - Filing of complaint with department — Notice — Rules of evidence not binding.

§ 31-44-17. Filing of complaint with department — Notice — Rules of evidence not binding.
(a)
Any resident of a mobile and manufactured housing park or any owner of a mobile and manufactured housing park may petition the director by filing a complaint with the department of business regulation. After review of the claim and a decision by the director that the matter has merit and is not frivolous, the director shall schedule a hearing within sixty (60) days from receipt of the claim. If the director finds the claim to be without merit or to be frivolous, the director shall dismiss the complaint and explain in writing to the complainant his or her reasons for dismissing the complaint.
(b)
The director, or his or her agent, shall serve notice, in writing, of the time and place of the hearing upon all appropriate parties at least twenty (20) days prior to the date of the hearing. Both parties to the complaint may be represented by counsel.
(c)
The director, or his or her agent, shall not be bound by common law or statutory rules of evidence but may admit all testimony having a reasonable probative value. Complaints filed shall be handled in accordance with the departments’ rules of practice and the administrative procedures act, chapter 35 of title 42. It may exclude evidence which, in the opinion of the director or his or her agent, is immaterial, irrelevant, or unduly repetitious.
History of Section.
P.L. 1996, ch. 94, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 248, § 1; P.L. 2018, ch. 176, § 17; P.L. 2018, ch. 289, § 17.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44 - Mobile and Manufactured Homes › Section 31-44-18. - Decisions, judicial review and enforcement.

§ 31-44-18. Decisions, judicial review and enforcement.
(a)
When the director makes a decision, an order shall be made in writing and shall include finding of facts. The findings of fact shall be accompanied by a concise and explicit statement of the underlying facts supporting the findings. The parties shall be notified by mail of any decision or order.
(b)
A decision of the director may be appealed, by either party, by applying for a rehearing or appealing to the superior court for the county in which either party resides, within thirty (30) days of the date of the decision pursuant to the provisions of the Administrative Procedures Act, chapter 35 of title 42.
(c)
If no timely appeal is taken pursuant to subsection (b) of this section, the decision of the director shall become final. The director shall file a certified abstract of any final decision with the clerk of the superior court in the county of residence of the complainant. The clerk of the court shall enter judgment on it, and this judgment may be enforced as with any final judgment of the superior court.
History of Section.
P.L. 1996, ch. 94, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 248, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44 - Mobile and Manufactured Homes › Section 31-44-19. - Notification and cooperation required.

§ 31-44-19. Notification and cooperation required.
The director shall notify the attorney general’s consumer protection division and antitrust bureau, department of justice, that the attorney general may accept and act on written complaints properly forwarded to it by the director relative to mobile/manufactured housing.
History of Section.
P.L. 1996, ch. 94, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44 - Mobile and Manufactured Homes › Section 31-44-20. - Mobile home conveyance tax.

§ 31-44-20. Mobile home conveyance tax.
(a)
There is imposed, on every deed, instrument, or writing by which any mobile or manufactured home shall be granted, assigned, transferred, or otherwise conveyed to, or vested in, the purchaser or purchasers, or any other person or persons, by his or her or their direction, when the consideration paid exceeds one hundred dollars ($100), a tax at the rate of one dollar and forty cents ($1.40) for each five hundred dollars ($500) or fractional part thereof which is paid for the purchase of the home (inclusive of the value of any lien or encumbrance remaining on it at the time of sale), and exclusive of any personal property that may be included in the sale which tax shall be payable at the time of making, execution, delivery, acceptance or presenting for recording of the instrument. In the absence of an agreement to the contrary, the tax shall be paid by the grantor.
(b)
In the event no consideration is actually paid for the mobile or manufactured home, the instrument of conveyance shall contain a statement to the effect that the consideration is such that no documentary stamps are required.
(c)
The tax administrator shall enforce the provisions of this section and may adopt and enforce rules and regulations relating to the enforcement of this section.
History of Section.
P.L. 1996, ch. 319, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44 - Mobile and Manufactured Homes › Section 31-44-21. - Documentary stamps.

§ 31-44-21. Documentary stamps.
(a)
The payment of the tax imposed by this chapter shall be evidenced by the affixing of a documentary stamp or stamps to instrument by the person making, executing, delivering, or presenting for recording the instrument and only the original instrument shall be accepted for recording. The stamps shall be affixed in the manner that is consistent with § 44-25-4.1 authorizing the use of hand stamps. The recorder of deeds or clerks shall affix upon the face of each original instrument, by hand stamp issued by the tax administrator, a receipt clearly showing the amount of tax paid by the person making, executing, delivering, or presenting for recording the original instrument.
(b)
Whenever a hand stamp is authorized and used, the provisions of § 44-25-4(b) and (c) shall apply to the hand stamp.
History of Section.
P.L. 1996, ch. 319, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44 - Mobile and Manufactured Homes › Section 31-44-22. - Sale price recording.

§ 31-44-22. Sale price recording.
Every deed presented for recording due to the sale of property, which results in the transfer in ownership of the property, shall contain or have endorsed upon it the total dollar amount of the actual sale, which shall be recorded as part of the deed. A city or town clerk may decline to accept a deed for recording if the deed is not in compliance with this section. Failure to comply with this section shall not affect the validity of any deed.
History of Section.
P.L. 2006, ch. 309, § 2; P.L. 2007, ch. 340, § 5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44.1 - Mobile and Manufactured Home Lot Rental Increases › Section 31-44.1-1. - Declaration of policy.

§ 31-44.1-1. Declaration of policy.
The general assembly finds and declares that the provision of affordable housing is of vital concern to the citizens of the state, that mobile and manufactured homes are an important source for affordable housing, that lot rent increases for these homes are a continuing concern for low and moderate income citizens and the elderly, and that some form of limited regulation relative to lot rental increases for mobile and manufactured homes is in the public interest.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 216, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 309, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44.1 - Mobile and Manufactured Home Lot Rental Increases › Section 31-44.1-3. - Severability.

§ 31-44.1-3. Severability.
If any clause, sentence, paragraph, subsection, section or part of this chapter is adjudged by any court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, the judgment will not affect, impair or invalidate the remainder of it but will be confined in its operation to the clause, sentence, paragraph, subsection, section or part directly involved in the controversy in which the judgment has been rendered.
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 309, § 5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44.2 - Abandoned Mobile and Manufactured Home Act › Section 31-44.2-1. - Legislative findings and purpose.

§ 31-44.2-1. Legislative findings and purpose.
The general assembly finds that abandoned mobile and manufactured homes are a nuisance because they cause blight and depress property values. This act is intended to provide local governments and landowners with the authority to remove abandoned mobile and manufactured homes while protecting property rights.
History of Section.
P.L. 2014, ch. 255, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 309, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44.2 - Abandoned Mobile and Manufactured Home Act › Section 31-44.2-2. - Definitions.

§ 31-44.2-2. Definitions.
As used in this chapter:
(1)
“Department” means the department of business regulation.
(2)
“Mobile and manufactured home” means a detached residential unit designed:
(i)
For a long-term occupancy and containing sleeping accommodations, a flush toilet, and a tub or shower bath, and kitchen facilities, having both permanent plumbing and electrical connections for attachment to outside systems;
(ii)
To be transported on its own wheels or on a flatbed or other trailer or detachable wheels; and
(iii)
To be placed on pads, piers, or tied down, at the site where it is to be occupied as a residence complete and ready for occupancy, except for minor and incidental unpacking and assembly operations and connection to utilities systems.
(3)
“Abandoned mobile and manufactured home” means a mobile and manufactured home that is:
(i)
Not connected to electricity or not connected to a source of safe potable water supply sufficient for normal residential needs, or both; or
(ii)
Not connected to an adequate wastewater disposal system; or
(iii)
Unoccupied for a period of at least one hundred twenty (120) days and for which there is clear and convincing evidence that the occupant does not intend to return; or
(iv)
So damaged, decayed, dilapidated, unsanitary, unsafe, or vermin infested that it creates a hazard to the health and safety of the occupants or the public.
(4)
“Landowner” means the owner of the real property on which an abandoned mobile or manufactured home is located.
(5)
“Municipality” means the city or town in which the mobile or manufactured home is located.
(6)
“Licensee” means any person or agent licensed under § 31-44-1.7 who is directly or indirectly engaged in the business of maintaining or operating a mobile- and manufactured-home park under the provisions of chapter 44 of title 31.
History of Section.
P.L. 2014, ch. 255, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 309, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-44.2 - Abandoned Mobile and Manufactured Home Act › Section 31-44.2-3. - Jurisdiction.

§ 31-44.2-3. Jurisdiction.
The district court of this state shall exercise jurisdiction in both law and equity over removal of abandoned mobile or manufactured homes with respect to any conduct in this state governed by this chapter or with respect to any claim arising from a transaction subject to this chapter. In addition to any other method provided by rule or by statute, personal jurisdiction may be acquired in a civil action or proceeding commenced in the court by the service of process in the manner provided herein.
History of Section.
P.L. 2014, ch. 255, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 309, § 1.