reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-19 - Animal Care › Section 4-19-10. - Dealing in animals without a license.

§ 4-19-10. Dealing in animals without a license.
Any person who operates as a dealer of animals, as defined in this chapter, without a currently valid license shall, upon conviction, plea of guilty, or plea of nolo contendere, be punished pursuant to § 4-19-11.3. Each day of operation shall constitute a separate offense.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 46, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 488, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 490, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 120, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 145, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-19 - Animal Care › Section 4-19-11. - Mistreatment of animals.

§ 4-19-11. Mistreatment of animals.
Failure of any person, firm, or corporation, licensed or registered, under the provisions of this chapter, to adequately house, feed, and water animals in his or her possession or custody, as delineated in any rules and regulations promulgated under the authority of this chapter, shall constitute a misdemeanor, and the person, firm, or corporation shall be subject to a fine of not more than one hundred dollars ($100) per animal; and forfeiture of the animal(s); and revocation of license and/or certificate after a public hearing. Any animals that are suspected of being mistreated may be seized by the state veterinarian to ensure adequate welfare pursuant to § 4-1-31(f) with the cost of care for the aforementioned animals to be determined in the manner prescribed by that section.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 46, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 488, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 490, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-19 - Animal Care › Section 4-19-11.1. - Repealed.

§ 4-19-11.1. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 340, § 1; P.L. 1984, ch. 164, § 2; P.L. 2001, ch. 195, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 278, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2005, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 2005, ch. 262, § 1, effective July 13, 2005.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-19 - Animal Care › Section 4-19-11.2. - Destruction of animals — Reporting.

§ 4-19-11.2. Destruction of animals — Reporting.
All licensed releasing agencies are required to notify the department of environmental management monthly of the number of animals destroyed while those animals are in their care and custody.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 42, § 1; P.L. 1994, ch. 231, § 2; P.L. 1994, ch. 420, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 488, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 490, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-19 - Animal Care › Section 4-19-11.3. - Penalty for violations.

§ 4-19-11.3. Penalty for violations.
Any person, firm, or corporation who or that violates any provision of this chapter, unless the penalty is otherwise stated in a specific subsection, is subject upon conviction, plea of guilty, or plea of nolo contendere to a fine of five hundred dollars ($500) for the first offense and not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000) for the second and subsequent offense and loss of animal(s) and revocation of license and/or certificate after a public hearing.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 231, § 3; P.L. 2016, ch. 488, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 490, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-19 - Animal Care › Section 4-19-12.1. - Public health exemptions.

§ 4-19-12.1. Public health exemptions.
Destruction of animals using gas shall be permitted only by state agencies for the protection of public health. In addition, companies permitted by the department of environmental management pursuant to § 20-1-18 shall also be exempt from this ban on the use of gas.
History of Section.
P.L. 2005, ch. 256, § 4; P.L. 2005, ch. 262, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-19 - Animal Care › Section 4-19-13. - Rules and regulations.

§ 4-19-13. Rules and regulations.
The director may, as he or she deems indicated and appropriate, promulgate rules and regulations consistent with the objectives and intent of this chapter for the purpose of carrying out those objectives and intent. Those rules and regulations may include, but are not limited to, provisions relating to humane transportation to and from registered or licensed premises, records of purchase and sale, identification of animals handled, primary enclosures, housing facilities, sanitation, euthanasia, ambient temperatures, feeding, watering, adequate veterinary medical care, disposition and voluntary surrender of animals at shelters with and without a request for disposition or destruction of the animal. He or she may, at his or her discretion, after public hearing, adopt in whole or in part, those portions of the rules and regulations promulgated by the secretary of the United States department of agriculture pursuant to the provisions of the animal welfare act, 7 U.S.C. § 2131 et seq., which are consistent with the intent and purpose of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 46, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 483, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-19 - Animal Care › Section 4-19-14. - Chapter inapplicable.

§ 4-19-14. Chapter inapplicable.
This chapter does not apply to a place or establishment which is operated under the immediate supervision of a duly licensed veterinarian as a hospital where animals are harbored, boarded and cared for incidental to the treatment, prevention, or alleviation of disease processes during the routine practice of the profession of veterinary medicine except that, if animals are accepted by that place, establishment or hospital for the primary purpose of boarding in return for a fee, the place, establishment or hospital is subject to the kennel license provisions of this chapter and the regulations relating to the license which may be promulgated by the director. This chapter shall not apply to any dealer or research facility during the period that the dealer or research facility is in the possession of a valid license or registration granted by the secretary of agriculture pursuant to 7 U.S.C. § 2131 et seq. This chapter shall not apply to breeders, nor to hobby breeders.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 46, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-19 - Animal Care › Section 4-19-15. - Access of inspectors to property.

§ 4-19-15. Access of inspectors to property.
Any authorized representative of the director, and the general agent of the Rhode Island society for the prevention of cruelty to animals, has the power to enter at reasonable times upon any private or public property for the purposes of inspection and investigating conditions relating to the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 46, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-19 - Animal Care › Section 4-19-17. - Forfeited fees.

§ 4-19-17. Forfeited fees.
Upon request, the adoptive party shall receive a refund for the fee collected by the licensed releasing agency under the provisions of subsection 4-19-16(a) provided that the licensed releasing agency has not caused the dog or cat to be spayed or neutered at the time the request for such refund is made.
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 24, § 2; P.L. 1995, ch. 260, § 1; P.L. 2005, ch. 125, § 1; P.L. 2005, ch. 203, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 312, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 417, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-19 - Animal Care › Section 4-19-19. - Adoption of municipal ordinances.

§ 4-19-19. Adoption of municipal ordinances.
No provision of this chapter prohibits any city or town from adopting any provision of this chapter as a municipal ordinance.
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 24, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-19 - Animal Care › Section 4-19-20. - Severability.

§ 4-19-20. Severability.
If any provision of this chapter or the application of any provision to any person or circumstances is held invalid, the remainder of the chapter and the application of any provision to persons or circumstances other than those as to which it is held invalid shall not be affected by this invalidity.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 46, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 120, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 145, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-19 - Animal Care › Section 4-19-21. - Use of the terms owner or guardian.

§ 4-19-21. Use of the terms owner or guardian.
Wherever the word “owner” shall appear in this chapter it shall also mean and may be interchanged with the word “guardian” as defined in § 4-19-2.
History of Section.
P.L. 2001, ch. 72, § 11.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-19 - Animal Care › Section 4-19-22. - Animal control officers.

§ 4-19-22. Animal control officers.
(a)
Effective January 1, 2019, no municipality shall employ any animal control officer who has not received certification to be an animal control officer from the National Animal Care & Control Association (NACA) or other equivalent organization as determined by the Rhode Island Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. All new hires will have a period of twelve (12) months from date of hire to receive certification. All existing personnel employed as animal control officers shall obtain their certification by January 1, 2019.
(b)
The training and certification program required by subsection (a) of this section shall incorporate instruction that shall meet NACA guidelines for certification, including, but not limited to, the following criteria:
(1)
Laws and regulations affecting animal control, animal welfare, and animal cruelty;
(2)
Domestic and wild animal behavior;
(3)
Handling and treatment of deceased or stray animals; and
(4)
Emergency procedures and conflict resolution skills.
History of Section.
P.L. 2017, ch. 118, § 1; P.L. 2017, ch. 144, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-19 - Animal Care › Section 4-19-23. - Pets for veterans.

§ 4-19-23. Pets for veterans.
(a)
A public animal shelter shall not charge an adoption fee for a dog or cat if the person adopting the dog or cat presents to the public animal shelter a current and valid driver’s license or identification card with the word “veteran” printed on its face pursuant to § 31-10-48.
(b)
A public animal shelter may limit the number of dogs or cats adopted from that public animal shelter pursuant to subsection (a) of this section to one dog or cat during a period of every six (6) months.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 288, § 1, effective June 29, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 289, § 1, effective June 29, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-19 - Animal Care › Section 4-19-24. - Humane transportation of K-9 partners.

§ 4-19-24. Humane transportation of K-9 partners.
(a)
For the purposes of this section, “police dog” means: a dog owned by a police department or police agency of the state of Rhode Island or any political subdivision thereof, that is used by the department or agency for official duties.
(b)
EMS personnel may provide emergency treatment to a police dog injured in the line of duty and transport the police dog by ambulance to a veterinary care facility equipped to provide emergency treatment to dogs; provided, however, that EMS personnel shall not transport an injured police dog if providing transport would inhibit their ability to provide emergency medical attention or transport to a person requiring such services.
(c)
The department of health, in consultation with the Rhode Island veterinary medical association, the Rhode Island association of fire chiefs, the Rhode Island state association of firefighters, at least two (2) practicing, licensed emergency medical technicians, the international brotherhood of police officers’ K-9 officer, the fraternal order of police’s K-9 officer, and the department of state police’s K-9 unit, shall develop policies and procedures that include, but are not limited to:
(1)
Appropriate training of EMS personnel to provide police dogs basic level first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and life-saving interventions, including, but not limited to, administering naloxone; provided, however, that nothing in this section shall authorize the provision of advanced life support care to a police dog;
(2)
Safe handling procedures for injured police dogs, including, but not limited to, the use of a box muzzle and response coordination with a law enforcement official trained in handling police dogs;
(3)
Identification of veterinary facilities that provide emergency treatment for injured police dogs;
(4)
Decontamination of stretchers, the patient compartment, and any contaminated medical equipment after a police dog has been transported by ambulance or EMS vehicle; and
(5)
Sterilization of the interior of an ambulance or EMS vehicle before being returned to human service, including, but not limited to, sanitizing all allergens and disinfection to a standard safe for human transport.
(d)
The department of health may grant a waiver from this section if the department determines that compliance poses a safety risk to the public. The department shall develop regulations regarding applications and issuance of such a waiver.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 295, § 1, effective June 29, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 296, § 1, effective June 29, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-20 - Rodeo Animals and Livestock › Section 4-20-1. - Purpose.

§ 4-20-1. Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to establish guidelines and criteria for rodeo and rodeo related activities relative to humane treatment of rodeo animals and rodeo livestock in the state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 661, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-20 - Rodeo Animals and Livestock › Section 4-20-2. - Notification requirements.

§ 4-20-2. Notification requirements.
No person, firm, corporation, or association shall conduct or promote any rodeo without first having notified in writing the animal control officer of the city or town in which this event is to take place. The notification shall include the dates and times of this event and the identity of the person who has charge of this event.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 661, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 245, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-20 - Rodeo Animals and Livestock › Section 4-20-3. - Presence of veterinarian required.

§ 4-20-3. Presence of veterinarian required.
No person, firm, corporation, or association shall conduct or promote any rodeo without requiring the presence of a veterinarian licensed to practice in Rhode Island during the time that this event is taking place. The veterinarian employed shall be one who has had experience in the treatment of large animal life for a period of not less than two (2) years. All expenses incurred for the presence of and services rendered by the veterinarian employed shall be the responsibility of the promoter of the event.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 661, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 245, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-20 - Rodeo Animals and Livestock › Section 4-20-4. - Rodeo events.

§ 4-20-4. Rodeo events.
Rodeo events involving animals/livestock shall be limited to bareback riding, saddle bronk riding, bull riding, calf roping, as provided in § 4-20-7, breakaway calf-roping, steer wrestling, team riding, barrel racing, team roping, wild horse racing, chuckwagon racing, quarter horse races, mounted flag races, trail riding events, obstacle course and pole bending events. This shall include any nonpublic practice or point gathering events which are conducted prior to or subsequent to any public performances.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 661, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 245, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-20 - Rodeo Animals and Livestock › Section 4-20-5. - Duties of veterinarian in charge.

§ 4-20-5. Duties of veterinarian in charge.
The appointed veterinarian, once appointed to oversee any rodeo, shall have access to the complete site of any activity involving animals to be employed in the event. The veterinarian shall have complete authority over the treatment and use of any animal that becomes injured in this event. The veterinarian shall have the right to declare any animal unfit for use in any such event and his or her decision shall be final after that decision has been communicated to the person in charge, as communicated to the animal control officer in § 4-20-2.
History of Section.
P.L. 1989, ch. 245, § 2; P.L. 2016, ch. 512, art. 2, § 49.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-20 - Rodeo Animals and Livestock › Section 4-20-6. - Presence required during any event.

§ 4-20-6. Presence required during any event.
The person in charge, as communicated to the animal control officer in accordance with § 4-20-1, is required to be present and available for communication while the event is taking place. In the event that the person in charge, as communicated in accordance with § 4-20-1, is unable to be present, he or she shall notify the appointed veterinarian and the animal control officer of the city or town in which the event is taking place and make known to them the name of the person who will replace him or her as the person in charge.
History of Section.
P.L. 1989, ch. 245, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-20 - Rodeo Animals and Livestock › Section 4-20-7. - Limitations.

§ 4-20-7. Limitations.
The roping of any calf in any rodeo is limited to breakaway calf roping, where the calf is released immediately after it is roped without the animal being subjected to a sudden stop or fall.
History of Section.
P.L. 1989, ch. 245, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-20 - Rodeo Animals and Livestock › Section 4-20-8. - Participation.

§ 4-20-8. Participation.
No person shall participate in any rodeo activity who has been convicted of cruelty to animals while participating in any rodeo.
History of Section.
P.L. 1989, ch. 245, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-20 - Rodeo Animals and Livestock › Section 4-20-9. - Penalties for violations.

§ 4-20-9. Penalties for violations.
Whoever violates any provision of this chapter, shall, for each offense be fined not less than fifty dollars ($50.00) nor more than five hundred dollars ($500).
History of Section.
P.L. 1989, ch. 245, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-21 - Exemption from Liability Arising from Equine Activities › Section 4-21-2. - General provisions.

§ 4-21-2. General provisions.
Except as provided in § 4-21-3, an equine activity sponsor, an equine professional, or any other person, which shall include a corporation or partnership, shall not be liable for an injury to or the death of a participant resulting from the inherent risks of equine activities unless the equine activity sponsor, professional or other person are demonstrated to have failed to exercise due care under the circumstances towards the participant and, except as provided in § 4-21-3, no participant nor any participant’s representative shall make any claim against, maintain an action against, or recover from an equine activity sponsor, an equine professional, or any other person for injury, loss, damage, or death of the participant resulting from any of the inherent risks of equine activities unless this equine activity sponsor, professional or other person shall be demonstrated to have failed to exercise due care under the circumstances towards the participant.
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 357, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-21 - Exemption from Liability Arising from Equine Activities › Section 4-21-3. - Exceptions.

§ 4-21-3. Exceptions.
(a)
This chapter does not apply to horse racing meetings to which chapter 3 of title 41 is applicable.
(b)
Nothing in § 4-21-2 prevents or limits the liability of an equine activity sponsor, an equine professional, or any other person if the equine activity sponsor, equine professional, or person:
(1)(A)
Provided the equipment or tack, and knew or should have known that the equipment or tack was faulty, and the equipment or tack was faulty to the extent that it did cause the injury; or
(B)
Provided the equine and failed to make reasonable and prudent efforts to determine the ability of the participant to engage safely in the equine activity, and determine the ability of the participant to safely manage the particular equine based on the participant’s representations of his or her ability;
(2)
Owns, leases, rents, has authorized use of, or is otherwise in lawful possession and control of the land, or facilities upon which the participant sustained injuries because of a dangerous condition which was known or should have been known to the equine activity sponsor, equine professional, or person;
(3)
Commits an act of omission that constitutes willful or wanton disregard for the safety of the participant, and that act of omission caused the injury; or
(4)
Intentionally injures the participant.
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 357, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-21 - Exemption from Liability Arising from Equine Activities › Section 4-21-4. - Posting and notification.

§ 4-21-4. Posting and notification.
(a)
Every equine professional shall post and maintain signs which contain the warning notice specified in subsection (b). These signs shall be placed in a clearly visible location in the proximity of the equine activity. The warning notice specified in subsection (b) shall appear on the sign in black letters, with each letter to be a minimum of one inch in height. Every written contract entered into by an equine professional for the providing of professional services, instruction, or the rental of equipment or tack or an equine to a participant, whether or not the contract involves equine activities on or off the location or site of the equine professional’s business, shall contain in clearly readable print the warning notice specified in subsection (b).
(b)
The signs and contracts described in subsection (a) shall contain the following warning notice:
Under Rhode Island Law, an equine professional, unless he or she can be shown to have failed to be in the exercise of due care, is not liable for an injury to, or the death of, a participant in equine activities resulting from the inherent risks of equine activities, pursuant to this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 357, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-22 - Cat Identification Program › Section 4-22-1. - Findings and purpose.

§ 4-22-1. Findings and purpose.
The state finds that a cat identification program, which would require an owner of a cat to maintain an identification for the cat, would serve the following public purposes:
(1)
Cat identification would provide cats protection under the law, equal to that afforded dogs, by establishing ownership which, in turn, would encourage cat owners to take full responsibility for their pets’ welfare.
(2)
Cat identification would protect cats, as dogs are now protected, by establishing minimum holding periods for cats released to and/or impounded by municipal animal control facilities and private animal shelters.
(3)
A program to require cat identification should facilitate the return of lost, owned cats.
(4)
Cat identification would provide a method to help distinguish between owned and unowned cat populations thus assisting animal control officers and animal shelters in carrying out their mission.
(5)
Cat identification would advance the reduction of the untold suffering of cats at-large in our state by helping to insure the quick return of injured and sick animals to their owners.
(6)
Passage of this bill would reduce the number of unowned cats and increase education to owners as to the need for sterilization of cats, thereby reducing unwanted litters, eliminating cat over-population problems, and reducing the costs to cities and towns for euthanizing at-large or unowned cats.
(7)
Cat identification would help support public health and safety in the control of rabies.
The purpose of this chapter, therefore, is to establish a cat identification program, which would require that an owner of a cat maintain an identification for the cat. These measures will also reduce the spread of rabies.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 291, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-22 - Cat Identification Program › Section 4-22-2. - Definitions.

§ 4-22-2. Definitions.
For the purposes of this chapter:
(a)
“At-large” means: (1) On the premises of a person other than an owner of the cat, without the consent of an occupant or owner of such premises, or (2) on a public street or highway, on public or private school grounds, or in any other public place, except when under the physical control of an owner.
(b)
“Feral cat” means any wild, unsocialized or untamed cat.
(c)
“Guardian” shall mean a person(s) having the same rights and responsibilities of an owner, and both terms shall be used interchangeably. A guardian shall also mean a person who possesses, has title to or an interest in, harbors or has control, custody or possession of an animal and who is responsible for an animal’s safety and well being.
(d)
“Identification” means: a traceable form of identification such as (1) a collar and a flat or hanging tag worn by a cat which includes the current name, address and telephone number of the owner, or (2) a rabies vaccination tax, or (3) an ear tag issued by a licensed veterinarian or by a licensed animal shelter or licensed municipal pound, or (4) a registered microchip which is used in conjunction with a visible collar and tag or in conjunction with a faceted, reflective ear stud, or (5) a tag from a licensed animal shelter or licensed municipal pound, or (6) a tattoo registered with the National Dog Registry or other similar national tattoo service, or (7) a cat license issued by a Rhode Island city or town, or (8) a collar incorporating embroidery as a type of information labeling rather than a hanging or flat tag or (9) in the case of feral cats, a tipped or notched ear in conjunction with a microchip or any of the above other forms of identification. The intent is to allow flexibility in the types of identification available for cats and to incorporate other types of cat identification in the future as they are developed.
(e)
“Impounded cat” means any cat released to or under the custody of or control of a licensed animal shelter or licensed municipal pound.
(f)
“Owner” means (1) any person who keeps, has permanent custody, owns, maintains, harbors, provides care or sustenance for, has control or charge of or responsibility for a cat or who permits a cat to habitually be or remain on or be lodged or fed within such person’s property or premises, and (2) any refusal to permit any animal control officer to impound such cat shall be deemed evidence of ownership unless ownership of the cat by another party is established.
(g)
“Person” means an individual, firm, jointstock company, partnership, association, private, or municipal corporation, state, commission, political subdivision, a state, any interstate body or the federal government or any agency or subdivision thereof.
(h)
“Roaming cat” means any homeless socialized cat or any stray socialized cat.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 291, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 72, § 12.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-22 - Cat Identification Program › Section 4-22-3. - Required cat identification.

§ 4-22-3. Required cat identification.
It shall be unlawful for any person to be an owner of a cat over three months of age unless the person maintains an identification worn by the cat at all times.
The identification provisions in this law are not applicable to the following:
(a)
A cat brought into the state exclusively for the purpose of entering them in a cat show or cat exhibition or for breeding purposes and which does not remain in this state for more than fifteen (15) days and which is not allowed to be at large.
(b)
A cat owned by any person who is not a resident of the state and is traveling through the state temporarily and for a period not to exceed thirty (30) days.
(c)
A cat temporarily kept by a licensed veterinarian, a licensed kennel, or a licensed animal shelter or a licensed municipal pound who maintain on their premises cats owned by others.
(d)
A cat temporarily kept by owners of a licensed pet shop for purposes of sale or by a licensed animal shelter or a licensed municipal pound for purposes of adoption.
(e)
A cat kept exclusively indoors or confined in outdoor areas and maintained for pedigreed cat breeding and stud purposes.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 291, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-22 - Cat Identification Program › Section 4-22-4. - Removal of cat identification.

§ 4-22-4. Removal of cat identification.
It shall be unlawful for any person other than an animal control officer, a licensed veterinarian, an employee of a licensed animal shelter, an employee of a licensed municipal pound, or a person authorized by an animal control officer to remove any identification from any cat not owned by the person.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 291, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-22 - Cat Identification Program › Section 4-22-6. - Enforcement.

§ 4-22-6. Enforcement.
An impounded at-large, roaming, or feral cat not wearing any identification may not be released to the owner of the cat until the owner complies with the identification requirements of this article.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 291, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-22 - Cat Identification Program › Section 4-22-7. - Violations.

§ 4-22-7. Violations.
Any animal control officer, and his agents, may issue to any person in violation of this section a notice of violation. Persons who violate any provision of this section shall be subject to a fine as defined under § 4-13-1 per violation per animal. Each and every incidence which goes unremedied for thirty (30) days after written notice of violation hereunder shall constitute a subsequent offense and subsequent fines will apply.
All fines collected under this section will be remitted to the town clerk or city clerk of the municipality where the violation was issued. Such fines shall be used by the municipality only for enforcing animal control laws or ordinances or for programs to house and care for cats.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 291, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-22 - Cat Identification Program › Section 4-22-8. - Authorization to impound cats.

§ 4-22-8. Authorization to impound cats.
Animal control officers and their agents are authorized and empowered to impound any roaming or feral cat at-large and to dispose of the same pursuant to the provisions of § 4-19-12. Licensed animal shelters are authorized to accept any roaming or feral cat released to them for impoundment and to dispose of the same pursuant to the provisions of § 4-19-12.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 291, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-22 - Cat Identification Program › Section 4-22-9. - Adoption of municipal ordinance.

§ 4-22-9. Adoption of municipal ordinance.
No provision of this chapter shall prohibit any city or town from adopting any provision of this chapter as a municipal ordinance.
History of Section.
P.L. 1999, ch. 291, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-22 - Cat Identification Program › Section 4-22-10. - Use of the terms owner or guardian.

§ 4-22-10. Use of the terms owner or guardian.
Wherever the word “owner” shall appear in this chapter it shall also mean and may be interchanged with the word “guardian” as defined in § 4-22-2.
History of Section.
P.L. 2001, ch. 72, § 13.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-23 - Animals and Animal Husbandry — Animal Trusts › Section 4-23-1. - Trust for care of animals.

§ 4-23-1. Trust for care of animals.
(a)
A trust may be created to provide for the care of an animal alive during the settlor’s lifetime. The trust terminates upon the death of the animal, or if the trust was created to provided for the care of more than one animal alive during the settlor’s lifetime upon the death of the last surviving animal.
(b)
Except as provided in this section, the provisions of the general laws which govern the creation and administration of express trusts applies to the trust for the care of an animal.
(c)
A trust authorized by this section may be enforced by a person appointed in the terms of the trust or, if no person is so appointed, by a person appointed by the court. A person having interest in the welfare of the animal may request the court to appoint a person to enforce the trust or to remove the appointed person. The appointed person shall have the rights of a trust beneficiary for the purpose of enforcing the trust, including receiving accountings, notices, and other information from the trustee and providing consents.
(d)
Property of a trust appointed by this person may be applied only to its intended use, except to the extent the court determines that the value of the trust property exceeds the amount required for the intended use. Property not required for the intended use, including the trust property remaining upon its termination, shall be distributed in the following order of priority:
(1)
As directed by the terms of the trust;
(2)
To the settlor, if then living;
(3)
Pursuant to the residuary clause of the settlor’s will;
(4)
To the settlor’s heirs in accordance with the Rhode Island general laws on descent and distribution.
(e)
A governing instrument shall be liberally construed in order to presume against the merely precatory or honorary nature of the disposition and to carry out the general intent of the transferor. Extrinsic evidence is admissible in determining the transferor’s intent.
(f)
If a trustee is not designated or designated trustee is not willing or able to serve, the probate court shall name a trustee; a court may order the transfer of the property to another trustee, if the court makes a factual finding that it is necessary to assure the intended use is carried out and if a successor trustee is not designated in the trust instrument or if a designated trustee does not agree to serve or is unable to serve.
History of Section.
P.L. 2005, ch. 388, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-24 - Permit Program for Cats › Section 4-24-1. - Short title.

§ 4-24-1. Short title.
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the “Rhode Island Permit Program for Cats.”
History of Section.
P.L. 2006, ch. 59, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 63, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-24 - Permit Program for Cats › Section 4-24-2. - Legislative findings.

§ 4-24-2. Legislative findings.
The general assembly hereby finds and declares that:
(1)
An unacceptable number of healthy, but abandoned cats are euthanized annually in Rhode Island.
(2)
Due to the large number of stray and abandoned cats, euthanasia is not a cost effective, acceptable or ethical solution to the threats to public health and safety posed by large populations of stray, feral or homeless cats.
(3)
Stray and abandoned pets, specifically cats, create numerous public health and safety problems, including transmission of disease and traffic hazards created by cats running loose on public streets.
(4)
A permit system for breeding of cats owned or harbored in the state, combined with a program for spaying/neutering, is a reasonable and effective means of reducing the population of abandoned or stray cats, and for eliminating the practice of euthanizing homeless cats, except those for whom euthanasia is an escape from suffering or necessary to protect people and/or other animals from vicious behavior.
The general assembly therefor finds and declares that it intends to provide for the public health, safety and welfare through a program requiring spaying and neutering cats unless appropriate permits are acquired. The provisions of this chapter shall be in addition to the cat registration or identifying program requirements set forth in this title.
History of Section.
P.L. 2006, ch. 59, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 63, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-24 - Permit Program for Cats › Section 4-24-3. - Spaying and neutering.

§ 4-24-3. Spaying and neutering.
(a)
No person, as defined by § 4-19-2, shall own or harbor, within the state, any cat over the age of six (6) months which has not been spayed or neutered, unless such person has adopted a cat from a licensed releasing agency as defined by § 4-19-2 and is subject to the spaying and neutering requirements of § 4-19-16 or holds either a license to keep an unaltered cat, or a license and permit for breeding cats issued by the animal control officer for the city or town in which they live, or unless the caretaker states that, due to age, health or illness it would be inappropriate to spay or neuter the cat and having in their possession a letter from a licensed veterinarian stating such, which shall be provided to the animal control officer.
(b)
An “intact” permit shall be issued for an unaltered cat if the owner signs a written statement that such animal will not be allowed to breed unless the owner has first obtained a breeding permit. An “intact” permit may be issued by the animal control officer to an individual who refuses to spay or neuter their cat. The fee for such a permit shall be one hundred dollars ($100) per year. All funds from “intact” permits shall be deposited in the city or town’s spay/neuter account.
(c)
Any person providing care or sustenance for an uninterrupted period of sixty (60) days or longer shall be deemed the owner of such animal and shall adhere to the provisions of this chapter. Provided, further, that cities and towns may, by ordinance, require a permit of persons who provide care or sustenance for colony(s) of feral cats.
History of Section.
P.L. 2006, ch. 59, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 63, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-24 - Permit Program for Cats › Section 4-24-4. - Breeding permits.

§ 4-24-4. Breeding permits.
(a)
No person shall cause or allow any cat owned or harbored in the city or town in which they live to breed without first obtaining a breeding permit under this section.
(b)
Each city or town animal control officer shall administer a permit program to allow the breeding of cats consistent with criteria and according to procedures contained in the city or town ordinances; provided, however, that where city’s or town’s have ordinances, specifically prohibiting the breeding of cats it shall be the city’s or town’s ordinances that shall govern with respect to that subsection or provision only.
(c)
Each applicant who is issued a permit to breed cats under this section shall pay an annual breeding permit fee of one hundred dollars ($100) per cat.
(d)
No person shall cause or allow the breeding of a male or female cat without first obtaining a breeding permit issued by the animal control officer. Breeding permits shall be valid for twelve (12) months, renewable on an annual basis for a fee of one hundred dollars ($100) per cat. Herein, all breeding permits shall contain the following terms and conditions and be subject to all of the following requirements:
(1)
No offspring may be sold or adopted and permanently placed until reaching an age of at least eight (8) weeks;
(2)
No offspring may be sold or adopted until immunized against common diseases as determined by the director of environmental management in accordance with chapter 4 of this title to be contagious or injurious to public health or to the health of other animals;
(3)
Any permit holder advertising to the public the availability of any animal for adoption or sale must prominently display the permit number in any publications in which they advertise. The permit number must be provided to any person adopting or purchasing any animal bred by the permit holder; and
(4)
The breeding permit holder shall adhere to minimum standards regarding the care and keeping of animals pursuant to chapter 19 of this title.
History of Section.
P.L. 2006, ch. 59, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 63, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-24 - Permit Program for Cats › Section 4-24-5. - Sale or adoption of cats.

§ 4-24-5. Sale or adoption of cats.
(a)
Any person or licensed business who provides or offers to the public, whether or not for compensation, any pet or pet related goods, where they are the primary products, or pet services shall provide to their clients, at no charge, information relating to pet care and ownership, including information on city and town laws pertaining to animal control.
(b)
Any person offering cats for sale or adoption shall disclose to any purchaser or adoptive owner, information regarding the licensing or permit requirements of the city or town in which they reside applicable to the animal.
History of Section.
P.L. 2006, ch. 59, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 63, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-24 - Permit Program for Cats › Section 4-24-6. - Revocation of permit.

§ 4-24-6. Revocation of permit.
(a)
Any permit issued may be revoked if the animal control officer has reasonable cause to believe any of the following to be true:
(1)
The permittee has violated the provisions of chapter 19 of this title or any other state or local ordinances relating to the keeping, care or use of any animal;
(2)
The permittee is in violation of any state health or safety law or regulation regarding animal care or control;
(3)
The permittee has failed to comply with any condition or requirement of the permit or has failed to pay any fee imposed under this section;
(4)
The permittee refuses to allow inspection, upon forty-eight (48) hours of written notice, of any cat covered by the permit or the premises on which the animal is kept; or
(5)
The permittee has transferred, sold or otherwise disposed of the cat for which the permit was issued.
(b)
If, after investigation, the animal control officer concludes that it is probable that one or more of the above grounds for revocation has occurred, he or she shall cause written notice thereof to be transmitted by mail to the address of the permittee. The notice shall specify the grounds of possible revocation of the permit, and shall specify a date and time for an informal hearing to be held before the animal control officer. The date shall be not less than five (5) days subsequent to the date the notice is mailed. After the informal hearing, the animal control officer may modify the terms of the permit or revoke the permit. Provided, further, that if the health or well-being of the animal is in danger the animal control officer of that city or town may take custody and control of the animal until such time that a hearing is conducted pursuant to this subsection.
History of Section.
P.L. 2006, ch. 59, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 63, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-24 - Permit Program for Cats › Section 4-24-7. - Farmland exemption.

§ 4-24-7. Farmland exemption.
Farmland defined as any tract or tracts of land, including woodland and wasteland constituting a farm unit which is actively devoted to agricultural or horticultural use including, but not limited to: forages and sod crops; grains and feed crops; fruits and vegetables; poultry, dairy, and other livestock and their products; nursery, floral and greenhouse products; and any other food or fiber products useful to people; shall be exempt from the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2006, ch. 59, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 63, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-24 - Permit Program for Cats › Section 4-24-8. - Abandonment of cats.

§ 4-24-8. Abandonment of cats.
If any cat is abandoned by their owner or any person having charge or custody of that cat, that person shall, for each offense be punished in the manner provided in § 4-1-2.
History of Section.
P.L. 2006, ch. 59, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 63, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-24 - Permit Program for Cats › Section 4-24-9. - Canine surcharge.

§ 4-24-9. Canine surcharge.
(a)
Each city and town is required to collect a one dollar ($1.00) surcharge on each dog license issued by the municipality. The revenue generated by this surcharge shall be deposited in the respective city’s and town’s spay/neuter account to fund low-cost spay/neuter programs.
(b)
Any remaining revenue collected pursuant to this section which is unused during any calendar year shall remain in said city or towns spay/neuter account for use during the following year.
History of Section.
P.L. 2006, ch. 59, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 63, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-24 - Permit Program for Cats › Section 4-24-10. - Penalty for violation.

§ 4-24-10. Penalty for violation.
Any person who violates the permit provisions of this chapter shall have no more than thirty (30) days to have their cat spayed or neutered or provide proof from a licensed veterinarian indicating that arrangements have been made to spay or neuter their cat(s). The animal control officer shall inform persons subject to this law to the availability of reduced cost or free spay/neuter programs available for low income persons and any programs sponsored by local humane organizations offering low cost spaying or neutering. If an animal is not spayed or neutered within thirty (30) days of the notice, he or she shall be subject to a seventy-five dollar ($75.00) fine for each thirty (30) days the animal is not spayed or neutered. Funds generated pursuant to this section shall be deposited in the spay/neuter account of the city or town where the violation occurred to be used to fund low-cost spay/neuter programs in accordance with § 4-24-13.
History of Section.
P.L. 2006, ch. 59, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 63, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-24 - Permit Program for Cats › Section 4-24-11. - Responsibility for enforcement.

§ 4-24-11. Responsibility for enforcement.
The local animal control officer shall be responsible for the enforcement and administration of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2006, ch. 59, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 63, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-24 - Permit Program for Cats › Section 4-24-12. - Time for compliance.

§ 4-24-12. Time for compliance.
Persons harboring a cat subject to this chapter on the effective date thereof [June 9, 2006] shall be given one hundred twenty (120) days from the date to comply with the provisions thereof.
History of Section.
P.L. 2006, ch. 59, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 63, § 1.