reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-11 - Meats › Section 21-11-2. - Sale of meat not handled in compliance with provisions.

§ 21-11-2. Sale of meat not handled in compliance with provisions.
It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, association, or corporation to handle, sell, or possess with intent to sell within this state the carcass of any animal or part of the carcass, any meat, meat product, or meat food product capable of use as human food which has not been slaughtered, canned, cured, smoked, salted, packed, rendered, handled, or processed in compliance with the provisions of this chapter and the regulations adopted in accordance with this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1935, ch. 2265, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 264, § 1; P.L. 1943, ch. 1306, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 21-11-2; P.L. 1970, ch. 141, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-11 - Meats › Section 21-11-3. - License required for processing and packing houses.

§ 21-11-3. License required for processing and packing houses.
No person, firm, association, or corporation shall operate within this state any establishment for the purpose of slaughtering any animal for human consumption, or for canning, curing, smoking, salting, packing, rendering, or handling the carcass of any animal or part of the carcass, or for the manufacturing of any meat product or meat food product, until that person, firm, association, or corporation shall have obtained a license from the department of health. This section shall not apply to a retail market offering for sale only those primal parts commonly known in the trade as sides, quarters, shoulders, hams, backs, bellies, tongues, livers, or similar parts, or meat, meat products, or meat food products, which have been obtained from the establishment of a person, firm, association, or corporation licensed in accordance with provisions of this section, nor to any retail market where meat processing consists solely of grinding meat for sale on the premises.
History of Section.
G.L. 1938, ch. 264, § 2; P.L. 1943, ch. 1306, § 1; P.L. 1944, ch. 1469, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 21-11-3; P.L. 1970, ch. 141, § 3; P.L. 2002, ch. 292, § 47.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-11 - Meats › Section 21-11-4. - Issuance and term of licenses — Suspension or revocation.

§ 21-11-4. Issuance and term of licenses — Suspension or revocation.
The director of health shall, upon receipt of application for a license to operate an establishment for any or all of the purposes mentioned in § 21-11-3, cause that establishment to be inspected and, if it is found to conform to the provisions of this chapter and the regulations adopted in accordance with this chapter, shall issue a license upon receipt of a fee as set forth in § 23-1-54; provided, that the license fee shall be at a reduced rate, as also set forth in § 23-1-54, for any one establishment where: (1) the meat is sold only at retail, (2) no slaughtering is performed, and (3) no more than one of the activities described in § 21-11-3 for which a license is required is performed. In order to set the license renewal dates so that all activities for each establishment can be combined on one license instead of on several licenses, the department of health shall set the license renewal date. The license period shall be for twelve (12) months, commencing on the license renewal date, and the license fee shall be at the full annual rate regardless of the date of application or the date of issuance of license. If the license renewal date is changed, the department may make an adjustment to the fees of licensed establishments, not to exceed the annual license fee, in order to implement the change in license renewal date. Applications for renewal of licenses, accompanied by the prescribed fee, shall be submitted at least two (2) weeks before the renewal date. Licenses issued or renewed under this section may be suspended or revoked for failure to comply with the provisions of this chapter or the regulations adopted in accordance with this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1935, ch. 2265, § 4; G.L. 1938, ch. 264, § 4; P.L. 1939, ch. 716, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 264, § 2; P.L. 1943, ch. 1306, § 1; P.L. 1944, ch. 1469, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 21-11-4; P.L. 1960, ch. 76, § 20; P.L. 1961, ch. 31, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 94, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 77, art. 15, § 3; P.L. 2007, ch. 73, art. 39, § 38; P.L. 2012, ch. 241, art. 9, § 31.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-11 - Meats › Section 21-11-5. - Regulations concerning processing and packing plants.

§ 21-11-5. Regulations concerning processing and packing plants.
The director of health may adopt regulations governing the plant, equipment, operation, and maintenance of establishments defined in § 21-11-3, the methods and materials used, the source and quality of water, sewage and waste disposal, the approval or condemnation and disposal of any carcass or part of a carcass, meat, meat products, and meat food product, insofar as they relate to the health and protection of the public and any matters which relate to the health and protection of the public. These regulations may prescribe the manner in which inspection will be performed and the periods during which licensees may operate.
History of Section.
P.L. 1935, ch. 2265, § 3; G.L. 1938, ch. 264, § 3; P.L. 1943, ch. 1306, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 21-11-5; P.L. 1970, ch. 141, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-11 - Meats › Section 21-11-6. - Stamping of meat — Sale of unstamped meat prohibited.

§ 21-11-6. Stamping of meat — Sale of unstamped meat prohibited.
The director of health shall cause to be prepared a suitable stamp for impression upon the carcass of any animal or part of the carcass or any meat, meat product, or meat food product which has been examined and found to be sound, healthful, wholesome, and fit for human consumption. The carcass of any animal or part of the carcass or any meat, meat product, or meat food product not impressed in this manner shall be unsalable as food, and if exposed or offered for sale shall be confiscated.
History of Section.
P.L. 1935, ch. 2265, §§ 5, 6; G.L. 1938, ch. 264, §§ 4-6; P.L. 1943, ch. 1306, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 21-11-6.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-11 - Meats › Section 21-11-6.1. - Watering of meat.

§ 21-11-6.1. Watering of meat.
It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, association, or corporation to sell or possess with intent to sell within this state any meat the moisture content of which exceeds the maximum permitted under federal rules or regulations for meat shipped in interstate commerce.
History of Section.
P.L. 1968, ch. 5, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-11 - Meats › Section 21-11-7. - Processing for private use.

§ 21-11-7. Processing for private use.
The provisions of this chapter shall not apply to slaughtering of animals, or the canning, curing, smoking, packing, or rendering of the carcass of any animal or part of the carcass, where the animal is slaughtered by the owner of the animal and where the meat, meat product, or meat food product obtained from the animal is used for the private use of the owner of the animal slaughtered, or of the owner’s immediate family.
History of Section.
G.L. 1938, ch. 264, § 5; P.L. 1943, ch. 1306, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 21-11-7; P.L. 1972, ch. 279, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-11 - Meats › Section 21-11-8. - Federally inspected meat exempt.

§ 21-11-8. Federally inspected meat exempt.
Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to prevent the sale or possession of the carcass of any animal or part of the carcass or any meat, meat product, or meat food product which has been inspected and passed by the agricultural research service of the United States Department of Agriculture.
History of Section.
G.L. 1938, ch. 264, § 1; P.L. 1943, ch. 1306, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 21-11-8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-11 - Meats › Section 21-11-9. - Penalties for violations.

§ 21-11-9. Penalties for violations.
Any person, firm, association, or corporation violating any of the provisions of this chapter or the regulations authorized by this chapter shall be punished:
(1)
By a term of imprisonment not exceeding three (3) months or by a fine not exceeding one hundred dollars ($100) for the first offense;
(2)
By a term of imprisonment not exceeding six (6) months or by a fine not exceeding two hundred dollars ($200) for the second offense; and
(3)
By a term of imprisonment not exceeding one year or by a fine not exceeding five hundred dollars ($500) or by both the fine and imprisonment for a third or subsequent offense.
History of Section.
P.L. 1935, ch. 2265, § 9; G.L. 1938, ch. 264, § 9; G.L. 1938, ch. 264, § 6; P.L. 1943, ch. 1306, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 21-11-9.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-11 - Meats › Section 21-11-10. - Enforcement — Prosecution of violations.

§ 21-11-10. Enforcement — Prosecution of violations.
It shall be the duty of the director of health or the director’s duly appointed agents to enforce the provisions of this chapter and the regulations adopted in accordance with this chapter and to prosecute all persons guilty of violations of it. In all prosecutions the director, or his or her duly appointed agents, shall not be required to enter into any recognizance or to give surety for costs.
History of Section.
G.L. 1938, ch. 264, § 7; P.L. 1943, ch. 1306, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 21-11-10.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-13 - Poultry › Section 21-13-1. - Definitions.

§ 21-13-1. Definitions.
For the purpose of this chapter, the following words have the meanings ascribed to them in this section:
(1)
“Director” means the director of health or his or her duly authorized agent.
(2)
“Person” means the state, any municipality, political subdivision, institution, public or private corporation, individual partnership, or other entity.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3804, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 21-13-1; P.L. 1963, ch. 74, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-13 - Poultry › Section 21-13-2. - Registration of persons engaged in slaughtering and evisceration.

§ 21-13-2. Registration of persons engaged in slaughtering and evisceration.
All persons engaged in slaughtering and/or eviscerating of poultry for human consumption shall register annually with the director of the department of health during the month of January. Registrations issued will expire on December 31 and must be renewed annually.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3804, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 21-13-2; P.L. 1963, ch. 74, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-13 - Poultry › Section 21-13-3. - Premises for slaughtering or evisceration.

§ 21-13-3. Premises for slaughtering or evisceration.
All poultry prepared for human consumption in Rhode Island shall be slaughtered and/or eviscerated on premises approved by the director of health.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3804, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 21-13-3; P.L. 1963, ch. 74, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-13 - Poultry › Section 21-13-4. - Regulations.

§ 21-13-4. Regulations.
(a)
The director of health is authorized to adopt regulations relating to the premises, facilities, materials used, and procedures followed at places where poultry for human consumption is slaughtered, eviscerated, or processed or where poultry products for human consumption are prepared, insofar as the regulations relate to the health and protection of the public.
(b)
The director, for the health and protection of the public, is authorized to make ante-mortem inspections of poultry and to quarantine, or segregate, or re-inspect poultry or poultry products at any places where poultry is slaughtered, eviscerated, or processed or poultry products are prepared. The director, for the health and protection of the public, is authorized to condemn and render inedible diseased or unwholesome poultry or poultry products and to retain poultry or poultry products pending their further examination. The director is authorized to adopt regulations dealing with the identification of poultry and the marketing and labeling of poultry products or their containers, essential to the proper administration of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3804, § 4; G.L. 1956, § 21-13-4; P.L. 1963, ch. 74, § 1; P.L. 1970, ch. 220, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-13 - Poultry › Section 21-13-5. - Hearing on regulations.

§ 21-13-5. Hearing on regulations.
Before establishing the regulations as provided for in § 21-13-4, the director shall hold a public hearing, notice of which shall be given in a newspaper of statewide circulation.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3804, § 5; G.L. 1956, § 21-13-5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-13 - Poultry › Section 21-13-6. - Inspection powers.

§ 21-13-6. Inspection powers.
The director of health or any of the director’s subordinates may enter at reasonable times upon any private or public property for the purposes of inspection and investigating conditions relating to the slaughtering, eviscerating, and processing of poultry or poultry products to be used for human consumption.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3804, § 7; G.L. 1956, § 21-13-6; P.L. 1970, ch. 220, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-13 - Poultry › Section 21-13-6.1. - Watering of poultry.

§ 21-13-6.1. Watering of poultry.
It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, association, or corporation to sell or possess with intent to sell within this state any poultry or poultry product the moisture content of which exceeds the maximum permitted under federal rules or regulations of poultry or poultry products shipped in interstate commerce.
History of Section.
P.L. 1968, ch. 5, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-13 - Poultry › Section 21-13-7. - Penalties for violations.

§ 21-13-7. Penalties for violations.
Any person, firm, or corporation, which, by itself or its agents or employees, violates any provision of this chapter or any regulation made pursuant to this chapter shall be fined not more than one hundred dollars ($100) or less than twenty-five dollars ($25.00) for the first offense and not more than two hundred dollars ($200) or less than fifty dollars ($50.00) for each subsequent offense. The superior court shall have jurisdiction in equity to enforce the provisions of this chapter and the regulations adopted pursuant to this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3804, § 9; G.L. 1956, § 21-13-7; P.L. 1970, ch. 220, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-13 - Poultry › Section 21-13-8. - Revocation or refusal of registration.

§ 21-13-8. Revocation or refusal of registration.
Upon determination that any person having a registration issued under this chapter, or who has applied for a registration, has violated or failed to comply with any of the provisions of this chapter, or any of the rules or regulations promulgated pursuant to this chapter, the director may, after due notice to the registrant, and after affording the registrant an opportunity to be heard, revoke the registration or refuse to issue a registration to an applicant.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3804, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 21-13-8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-13 - Poultry › Section 21-13-9. - Scope of application.

§ 21-13-9. Scope of application.
The provisions of this chapter shall apply to every person, firm, partnership, or corporation engaged in slaughtering or eviscerating poultry, or in the preparation of poultry products for human consumption.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3804, § 8; G.L. 1956, § 21-13-9; P.L. 1970, ch. 220, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-13 - Poultry › Section 21-13-10. - Responsibility for chapter.

§ 21-13-10. Responsibility for chapter.
The director of health shall carry out the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3804, § 6; G.L. 1956, § 21-13-10; P.L. 1963, ch. 74, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-14 - Shellfish Packing Houses › Section 21-14-1. - Definitions.

§ 21-14-1. Definitions.
Unless otherwise specifically provided, the following definitions apply to this chapter:
(1)
“Approved” means approved by the director.
(2)
“Department” means the department of health.
(3)
“Director” means the director of health or the director’s duly appointed agents.
(4)
“Person” means any individual, firm, partnership, association, or private or municipal corporation.
(5)
“Polluted area” means and includes any shellfish grounds underlying waters which have been examined and found to be unfit for the production of shellfish for human consumption.
(6)
“Processing” means and includes cleansing, mixing, opening, or packing shellfish which are to be offered for sale or sold.
(7)
“Shellfish” means and includes oysters, mussels, and all varieties of clams.
(8)
“Shellfish business” means and includes one of the following: processing, labeling, storing except in commercial warehouses, or transporting except by common carrier shellfish which are to be offered for sale or sold.
(9)
“Shellfish grounds” means and includes all lands underlying waters within the rise and fall of the tide and the marine limits of the jurisdiction of the state.
(10)
“Taking” means and includes gathering, digging, raking, tonging, or dredging of shellfish.
History of Section.
G.L. 1938, ch. 234, § 1; P.L. 1948, ch. 2039, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 21-14-1; P.L. 1980, ch. 263, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-14 - Shellfish Packing Houses › Section 21-14-2. - License for shellfish business.

§ 21-14-2. License for shellfish business.
No person shall conduct within this state any shellfish business until that person shall have obtained a license from the department. The director shall, upon receipt of application for a license to conduct a shellfish business, cause the applicant’s shellfish business facilities to be investigated and, if they are found to comply with the provisions of this chapter and the regulations adopted in accordance with this chapter, shall issue a license upon receipt of a fee for a shipper/reshipper or for a shucker packer/repacker as set forth in § 23-1-54. Any license issued shall apply only to those phases of the shellfish business that appear on the license and are defined by the director in regulations he or she shall adopt in regard to licensing. In order to set the license renewal dates so that all activities for each establishment can be combined on one license instead of on several licenses, the department of health shall set the license renewal date. The license period shall be for twelve (12) months, unless sooner suspended or revoked for cause, commencing on the license renewal date, and the license fee shall be at the full annual rate regardless of the date of application or the date of issuance of license. If the license renewal date is changed, the department may make an adjustment to the fees of licensed establishments, not to exceed the annual license fee, in order to implement the change in license renewal date. Licenses issued pursuant to this section may be suspended or revoked for violation of the provisions of this chapter or the regulations adopted in accordance with this chapter. The director may, after a hearing, refuse to issue any shellfish business license to any person who has been convicted of any violation of this chapter.
History of Section.
G.L. 1938, ch. 234, § 2; P.L. 1948; ch. 2039, § 2; P.L. 1953, ch. 3149, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 21-14-2; P.L. 1978, ch. 69, § 1; P.L. 1980, ch. 263, § 3; P.L. 1990, ch. 65, art. 53, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 94. § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 77, art. 15, § 4; P.L. 2007, ch. 73, art. 39, § 39; P.L. 2012, ch. 241, art. 9, § 32.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-14 - Shellfish Packing Houses › Section 21-14-3. - Sanitary regulations.

§ 21-14-3. Sanitary regulations.
The director shall adopt any regulations regarding sanitation as he or she shall deem necessary with reference to the conduct of a shellfish business. The director shall also adopt any regulations as he or she deems necessary to assure the sanitary quality of shellfish brought into this state for sale in this state.
History of Section.
G.L. 1909, ch. 206, § 10; P.L. 1910, ch. 577, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 233, § 5; G.L. 1938, ch. 234, § 5; G.L. 1938, ch. 234, § 3; P.L. 1948, ch. 2039, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 21-14-3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-14 - Shellfish Packing Houses › Section 21-14-9. - Sale of noncomplying shellfish prohibited — Confiscation — Search warrants.

§ 21-14-9. Sale of noncomplying shellfish prohibited — Confiscation — Search warrants.
No person shall sell or possess with intent to sell within this state for human consumption any shellfish which have not been taken, processed, labeled, transported, or sold in compliance with the provisions of this chapter and the regulations adopted in accordance with this chapter. Any shellfish which the director shall have reasonable cause to believe have been taken from polluted areas or which have not been taken, processed, labeled, transported, or sold in compliance with the provisions of this chapter and the regulations adopted in accordance with this chapter shall be confiscated. Search warrants may be issued by any district court upon complaint of the director or the director’s duly authorized agents relating to violations of this chapter.
History of Section.
G.L. 1938, ch. 234, § 5; P.L. 1948, ch. 2039, § 2; P.L. 1953, ch. 3149, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 21-14-9.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-14 - Shellfish Packing Houses › Section 21-14-10. - Markets exempt from chapter.

§ 21-14-10. Markets exempt from chapter.
The provisions of this chapter shall not apply to wholesale or retail markets offering for sale only shellfish which have been obtained from persons licensed to operate shellfish establishments.
History of Section.
G.L. 1909, ch. 206, § 8; P.L. 1910, ch. 577, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 233, § 3; G.L. 1938, ch. 234, § 3; G.L. 1938, ch. 234, § 6; P.L. 1948, ch. 2039, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 21-14-10.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-14 - Shellfish Packing Houses › Section 21-14-11. - Enforcement — Prosecution of violations.

§ 21-14-11. Enforcement — Prosecution of violations.
It shall be the duty of the director to enforce the provisions of this chapter and the regulations adopted in accordance with this chapter and to prosecute all persons guilty of violations of them. In all prosecutions pursuant to this section the director shall not be required to enter into any recognizance nor to give surety for costs.
History of Section.
P.L. 1905, ch. 1222, § 5; G.L. 1909, ch. 206, § 5; G.L. 1909, ch. 206, § 14; P.L. 1910, ch. 577, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 233, § 9; G.L. 1938, ch. 234, § 9; G.L., ch. 234, § 7; P.L. 1948, ch. 2039, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 21-14-11.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-14 - Shellfish Packing Houses › Section 21-14-12. - Inspection of business premises — Dockside program established.

§ 21-14-12. Inspection of business premises — Dockside program established.
(a)
The director shall make regular inspections of the business premises of licensees and no person shall interfere with or obstruct the entrance of the director to any packing house or structural appurtenance to it, vessel, or vehicle for the purpose of making inspection as to sanitary conditions during reasonable business hours, and no person shall obstruct the conduct of this inspection; provided, that inspections as to sanitary conditions shall be made only by the director or employees of the department. These employees of the department shall not be construed to include agents whom the director may appoint in other departments for the purpose of enforcing other provisions of this chapter; and provided, that nothing in this section shall be construed as having granted to the director or any duly authorized official of the department the right of search and seizure without a warrant.
(b)
The director shall be authorized to establish a dockside program, including the promulgation of any rules and regulations deemed necessary or advisable in connection therewith, pursuant to the relevant provisions of the National Shellfish Sanitation Program (NSSP) Model Ordinance. Promulgating rules and regulations pursuant to the NSSP Model Ordinance shall ensure that the marine shellfish processers, licensed by the department to land and process surf clams and/or other marine shellfish species acquired in federal waters, are doing so in sanitary fashion that comports with national standards. The rules and regulations shall also be consistent with the landing permit requirements of the department of environmental management in § 20-2.1-7. The dockside program shall not apply to aquaculture processers.
(c)
The licensing fees from the dockside program shall be deposited into the general fund. However, the amount of the revenues collected for the dockside program shall be appropriated to the department of health for its administration of this program. The director shall have the authority to establish the licensing fees and limit the number of licenses issued, at his or her sole discretion.
History of Section.
G.L. 1938, ch. 234, § 8; P.L. 1948, ch. 2039, § 2; P.L. 1953, ch. 3149, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 21-14-12; P.L. 2021, ch. 162, art. 7, § 9, effective July 6, 2021; P.L. 2022, ch. 234, art. 2, § 10, effective June 28, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-14 - Shellfish Packing Houses › Section 21-14-13. - Appointment of enforcement agents.

§ 21-14-13. Appointment of enforcement agents.
The director may appoint as his or her agents any subordinate officers and employees in the department that may to him or her seem desirable and may assign to these agents the functions vested in the department for the preservation and enforcement of sanitary regulations in and around shellfish packing houses.
History of Section.
G.L. 1938, ch. 234, § 9; P.L. 1953, ch. 3149, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 21-14-13; impl. am. P.L. 1965, ch. 137, § 1; P.L. 1980, ch. 263, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-14 - Shellfish Packing Houses › Section 21-14-14. - Powers of enforcement agents.

§ 21-14-14. Powers of enforcement agents.
All agents appointed pursuant to § 21-14-13, by virtue of their appointment and until these appointments shall be cancelled and revoked, may seize all shellfish in possession of any person violating the provisions of this chapter, and may make complaints for the violations, and in any complaint they shall not be required at the time of complaint or after this to enter into recognizance or in any way to become liable for the costs that may accrue on the complaint.
History of Section.
G.L. 1938, ch. 234, § 9; P.L. 1953, ch. 3149, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 21-14-14; P.L. 1964, ch. 61, § 1; P.L. 1980, ch. 263, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-14 - Shellfish Packing Houses › Section 21-14-15. - Penalties for violations.

§ 21-14-15. Penalties for violations.
Persons convicted of violating any of the provisions of this chapter or the regulations adopted in accordance with this chapter shall be punished:
(1)
By a term of imprisonment not exceeding three (3) months or by a fine not exceeding one hundred dollars ($100) for the first offense;
(2)
By a term of imprisonment not exceeding six (6) months or by a fine not exceeding two hundred dollars ($200) for the second offense; and
(3)
By a term of imprisonment not exceeding one year or by a fine not exceeding five hundred dollars ($500) for a third or subsequent offense.
History of Section.
P.L. 1905, ch. 1222, § 2; G.L. 1909, ch. 206, § 2; G.L. 1909, ch. 106, § 13; P.L. 1910, ch. 577, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 233, § 8; G. L. 1938, ch. 234, § 8; G.L. 1938, ch. 234, § 9; P.L. 1948, ch. 2039, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 234, § 10; P.L. 1953, ch. 3149, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 21-14-15; P.L. 1964, ch. 61, § 2; P.L. 1980, ch. 263, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-15 - Pickled Fish › Section 21-15-1. - Duties of packers.

§ 21-15-1. Duties of packers.
In every city or town in which pickled fish are packed for sale or exportation from the state, the packers of every city or town shall see that the fish have been properly pickled and that they are properly repackaged in casks, in good shipping order, with good salt sufficient in each cask to preserve the fish from damage in transportation to any foreign port.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 134, § 1; G.L. 1909, ch. 160, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 190, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 380, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 21-15-1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-15 - Pickled Fish › Section 21-15-2. - Packer’s bond.

§ 21-15-2. Packer’s bond.
Every packer shall give bond to the city or town treasurer of the city or town in which the packer shall be appointed, in the sum of one thousand dollars ($1,000), with sufficient surety or sureties to the satisfaction of the city or town treasurer, for the faithful performance of the duties of his or her office.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 134, § 2; G.L. 1909, ch. 160, § 2; G.L. 1923, ch. 190, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 380, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 21-15-2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-15 - Pickled Fish › Section 21-15-3. - One kind of fish in cask.

§ 21-15-3. One kind of fish in cask.
Pickled fish, whether codfish, mackerel, menhaden, herrings, or other fish, shall be sorted and one kind only be put into the same cask.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 134, § 3; G.L. 1909, ch. 160, § 3; G.L. 1923, ch. 190, § 3; G.L. 1938, ch. 380, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 21-15-3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-15 - Pickled Fish › Section 21-15-4. - Construction, size, and packing of casks.

§ 21-15-4. Construction, size, and packing of casks.
Every cask shall be well seasoned and bound with twelve (12) hoops. Casks for menhaden and herrings shall be of the capacity to hold twenty-eight gallons (28 gals.), and those for other fish of the capacity, if a barrel, to hold two hundred pounds (200 lbs.), and if a half barrel, one hundred pounds (100 lbs.) weight of fish. Each cask shall be full and the fish shall be sound and well cured.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 134, § 4; G.L. 1909, ch. 160, § 4; G.L. 1923, ch. 190, § 4; G.L. 1938, ch. 380, § 4; G.L. 1956, § 21-15-4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-15 - Pickled Fish › Section 21-15-5. - Inspection and branding of casks.

§ 21-15-5. Inspection and branding of casks.
Every cask before being packed or repacked for exportation shall first be searched, examined, and approved by a packer; and shall, when packed or repacked for exportation, be branded legibly on one head with the kind of fish it contains and the weight of the fish or the capacity of the cask with the first letter of the first name and the whole of the surname of the packer, the name of the town, and the words Rhode Island, in letters not less than three-fourths of an inch (¾") long, to denote that the cask is merchantable and in good order for exportation.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 134, § 5; G.L. 1909, ch. 160, § 5; G.L. 1923, ch. 190, § 5; G.L. 1938, ch. 380, § 5; G.L. 1956, § 21-15-5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-15 - Pickled Fish › Section 21-15-6. - Branding of codfish casks as to quality.

§ 21-15-6. Branding of codfish casks as to quality.
Every cask of pickled codfish offered for sale or for exportation from the state shall also be branded “No. 1,” or “No. 2,” or “No. 3,” to denote the quality of the fish.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 134, § 6; G.L. 1909, ch. 160, § 6; G.L. 1923, ch. 190, § 6; G.L. 1938, ch. 380, § 6; G.L. 1956, § 21-15-6.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-15 - Pickled Fish › Section 21-15-7. - Grading of mackerel — Bloaters.

§ 21-15-7. Grading of mackerel — Bloaters.
There shall be five (5) qualities of mackerel. Mackerel of the best quality, not mutilated, measuring not less than fourteen inches (14") from the extremity of the head to the notch or fork of the tail, free from rust, taint, or damage, and that shall count not more than one hundred fifty (150) fish to the barrel, shall be branded on the barrel or covering containing them “Bloaters.”
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 134, § 7; G.L. 1909, ch. 160, § 7; G.L. 1923, ch. 190, § 7; G.L. 1938, ch. 380, § 7; G.L. 1956, § 21-15-7.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-15 - Pickled Fish › Section 21-15-8. - Number one mackerel.

§ 21-15-8. Number one mackerel.
Mackerel of the best quality, not mutilated, being not less than thirteen inches (13"), measured as provided in § 21-15-7, free from rust, taint, or damage, that shall count not more than two hundred (200) fish to the barrel, shall be branded “Number one.”
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 134, § 8; G.L. 1909, ch. 160, § 8; G.L. 1923, ch. 190, § 8; G.L. 1938, ch. 380, § 8; G.L. 1956, § 21-15-8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-15 - Pickled Fish › Section 21-15-9. - Number two mackerel.

§ 21-15-9. Number two mackerel.
Mackerel being not less than eleven inches (11"), measured as provided in § 21-15-7, free from rust, taint, or damage, and that shall count not more than three hundred fifty (350) fish to the barrel, shall be branded “Number two.”
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 134, § 9; G.L. 1909, ch. 160, § 9; G.L. 1923, ch. 190, § 9; G.L. 1938, ch. 380, § 9; G.L. 1956, § 21-15-9.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-15 - Pickled Fish › Section 21-15-10. - Number three mackerel.

§ 21-15-10. Number three mackerel.
Mackerel of the next inferior quality, free from taint or damage, not less than ten inches (10"), measured as provided in § 21-15-7, that shall not count more than five hundred (500) fish to the barrel, shall be branded “Number three.”
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 134, § 10; G.L. 1909, ch. 160, § 10; G.L. 1923, ch. 190, § 10; G.L. 1938, ch. 380, § 10; G.L. 1956, § 21-15-10.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-15 - Pickled Fish › Section 21-15-11. - Number four mackerel.

§ 21-15-11. Number four mackerel.
All other mackerel, free from taint or damage, shall be branded “Number four.”
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 134, § 11; G.L. 1909, ch. 160, § 11; G.L. 1923, ch. 190, § 11; G.L. 1938, ch. 380, § 11; G.L. 1956, § 21-15-11.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-15 - Pickled Fish › Section 21-15-12. - Stamping as to quality of mackerel.

§ 21-15-12. Stamping as to quality of mackerel.
No person or persons shall sell or offer for sale any mackerel without having stamped, upon the barrel or covering containing the barrel, in a plain and legible manner the quality of the fish as classified in §§ 21-15-7 — 21-15-11.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 134, § 12; G.L. 1909, ch. 160, § 12; G.L. 1923, ch. 190, § 12; G.L. 1938, ch. 380, § 12; G.L. 1956, § 21-15-12.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-15 - Pickled Fish › Section 21-15-13. - Sales and shipments by fishermen unaffected.

§ 21-15-13. Sales and shipments by fishermen unaffected.
Nothing in this chapter shall be construed as to prevent any fishermen or owners of fish, coming to this state from their fishing trips, from selling or reshipping their fish to any other of the United States without being packed into barrels or half barrels.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 134, § 13; G.L. 1909, ch. 160, § 13; G.L. 1923, ch. 190, § 13; G.L. 1938, ch. 380, § 13; G.L. 1956, § 21-15-13.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-15 - Pickled Fish › Section 21-15-14. - Sale or export of pickled fish not approved and branded.

§ 21-15-14. Sale or export of pickled fish not approved and branded.
Every person who shall offer for sale in or attempt to export from the state any pickled fish which have not been approved by a sworn packer, or in casks which are not branded as required in this chapter, shall be fined fifty dollars ($50.00) for each offense.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 134, § 14; G.L. 1909, ch. 160, § 14; G.L. 1923, ch. 190, § 14; G.L. 1938, ch. 380, § 14; G.L. 1956, § 21-15-14.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-15 - Pickled Fish › Section 21-15-15. - Transfer of fish from branded casks — Misbranding.

§ 21-15-15. Transfer of fish from branded casks — Misbranding.
Every person who shall shift any fish from any cask after the cask has been branded by the packer, and shall offer to sell or export the fish from this state, or shall brand any cask into which the fish shall be shifted, or shall brand any cask with the branding iron of a packer or with any iron made in imitation of it, shall be fined not less than thirty dollars ($30.00) nor more than one hundred sixty dollars ($160) for each offense.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 134, § 15; G.L. 1909, ch. 160, § 15; G.L. 1923, ch. 190, § 15; G.L. 1938, ch. 380, § 15; G.L. 1956, § 21-15-15.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-15 - Pickled Fish › Section 21-15-16. - Fraud or neglect by packers.

§ 21-15-16. Fraud or neglect by packers.
Every packer who shall be guilty of any fraud or neglect in packing any fish contrary to this chapter, or shall brand any cask not thoroughly examined according to the provisions of this chapter, shall be fined fifty dollars ($50.00) for each offense.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 134, § 16; G.L. 1909, ch. 160, § 16; G.L. 1923, ch. 190, § 16; G.L. 1938, ch. 380, § 16; G.L. 1956, § 21-15-16.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-15 - Pickled Fish › Section 21-15-17. - Packers’ fees.

§ 21-15-17. Packers’ fees.
The packers of fish shall be paid for opening, assorting, inspecting, weighing, pickling, packing, or repacking, heading up, nailing, and giving a certificate, if pickled codfish or mackerel, twenty cents ($0.20) for every barrel and fifteen cents ($0.15) for every half barrel by the owner of the fish; provided, that for all pickled codfish or mackerel which have been inspected in one of the United States and which shall not in the judgment of the packer require repacking, the owner shall only pay to the packer twenty cents ($0.20) for unheading, inspecting, reheading, branding, nailing, and giving a certificate of the work, and for all other, except codfish and mackerel, the owner of the fish shall pay the packer twenty-five cents ($0.25) for every cask.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 134, § 17; G.L. 1909, ch. 160, § 17; G.L. 1923, ch. 190, § 17; G.L. 1938, ch. 380, § 17; G.L. 1956, § 21-15-17.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-16 - Kosher Foods › Section 21-16-1. - Violations or deception as to religious dietary laws by dealers in meats.

§ 21-16-1. Violations or deception as to religious dietary laws by dealers in meats.
A person, firm, or corporation shall be guilty of a misdemeanor:
(1)
Who shall knowingly sell or expose for sale any meat or meat preparation, either raw or prepared for human consumption, and falsely represent it to be kosher or as having been prepared under the supervision of a rabbi or as a product or products sanctioned by the traditional or orthodox Hebrew religious requirements and dietary laws;
(2)
Who shall falsely represent any food product or the contents of any package or container to be constituted and prepared, by having or permitting to be inscribed on it the word “kosher” in any language;
(3)
Who shall sell or expose for sale in the same place of business both kosher and non-kosher meat or meat preparation, either raw or prepared for human consumption, who fails to indicate on the window signs and all display advertising, in block letters at least four inches (4") in height, “kosher and non-kosher meat sold here”;
(4)
Who shall expose for sale in any show window or place of business both kosher and non-kosher meat or meat preparation, either raw or prepared for human consumption, who fails to display over each kind of meat or meat preparation so exposed a sign in block letters at least four inches (4") in height reading “kosher meat” or “non-kosher meat,” as the case may be;
(5)
Who shall, while dealing or purporting to deal in kosher meat or meat preparations, prepare or handle or sell, or cause to be prepared or handled or sold, any food product which, when prepared or handled or sold together with kosher meat or meat preparation, constitutes a violation of the traditional or orthodox Hebrew religious requirements and dietary laws, and by which renders the kosher meat or meat preparation non-kosher;
(6)
Who shall in the preparation, handling, or sale of kosher meat or meat preparation fail to comply strictly with the religious requirements and dietary laws necessary to constitute the meat or meat preparation genuinely kosher;
(7)
Who shall, without complying with Hebrew religious or dietary laws, issue or maintain any sign or advertisement in any language purporting to represent that he or she sells or deals in kosher meat or meat preparations; or
(8)
Who shall display on his or her window, door, or in his or her place of business, words or letters in the Hebrew language, or any sign, emblem, insignia, symbol, or mark in simulation of Hebrew words or letters, the display of which might reasonably be calculated to deceive or lead a person to believe that a representation, express or implied, is being made that the meat or meat preparation exposed for sale is kosher and in conformity with the traditional or orthodox Hebrew religious requirements.
History of Section.
P.L. 1937, 2497, 2496, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 613, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 21-16-1; P.L. 1989, ch. 542, § 38; P.L. 2002, ch. 292, § 48.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-16 - Kosher Foods › Section 21-16-2. - Violations and deception by restaurants.

§ 21-16-2. Violations and deception by restaurants.
A person, firm, or corporation who shall knowingly sell or expose for sale in any restaurant or other place where food products are sold for consumption on the premises any article of food or food preparation falsely represented as kosher or as having been prepared in accordance with the orthodox or traditional Hebrew religious requirements, either by direct statements, orally or in writing, or by display of the word “kosher” in English or Hebrew letters, or by the display of any sign or mark in simulation of that word, or by the display of any insignia, six-pointed star, or any mark which might reasonably be calculated to deceive or lead a reasonable person to believe that a representation is being made that the food sold is kosher or prepared in accordance with the traditional or orthodox Hebrew religious requirements, or who shall sell or expose for sale in a restaurant or other place both kosher and non-kosher food or food preparation, or who shall prepare, handle, combine, or serve kosher foods in a manner not sanctioned by the traditional or orthodox Hebrew religious requirements, who fails to display on his window signs and all display advertising in block letters at least four inches (4") in height ”kosher and non-kosher food served here” shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
History of Section.
P.L. 1937, ch. 2497, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 613, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 21-16-2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-16 - Kosher Foods › Section 21-16-3. - False labeling as to fitness for Passover.

§ 21-16-3. False labeling as to fitness for Passover.
A person, firm, or corporation who shall stamp or label or cause to be stamped or labeled any can, jar, package, or other container of food or food preparation, falsely representing these to be kosher for Passover use or as having been prepared for Passover use under the supervision or sanction of any accredited rabbi of the traditional or orthodox Hebrew religion, by having or permitting to be inscribed on them the words “kosher for Passover” in any language or any sign or mark in simulation of those words in any language or any mark which might reasonably be calculated to deceive or lead a reasonable person to believe that the contents are represented as kosher for Passover use or as prepared under the supervision or sanction of an accredited rabbi of the traditional or orthodox Hebrew religion, and a person, firm, or corporation who shall knowingly sell or expose for sale any falsely stamped or labeled can, jar, package, or other container shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
History of Section.
P.L. 1937, ch. 2497, § 3; G.L. 1938, ch. 613, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 21-16-3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-16 - Kosher Foods › Section 21-16-4. - Penalties — Prosecution of violations.

§ 21-16-4. Penalties — Prosecution of violations.
A person, firm, or corporation convicted of violating any of the provisions of this chapter shall, for the first offense, be punished by a fine in the sum of not less than ten dollars ($10.00) and not more than three hundred dollars ($300) and for the second and each subsequent offense by a fine of not less than twenty-five dollars ($25.00) nor more than five hundred dollars ($500), or by imprisonment not exceeding one year, or by other fine and imprisonment, in the discretion of the court. It shall be the duty of every board of health and the health department of any city or town and the department of health of the state whenever cognizant of any violation of this chapter to prosecute any person, firm, or corporation which it has reason to believe has violated any of the provisions of this chapter, and after deducting the costs of trial and conviction, to retain for the use of the board or department the balance of the fine or fines recovered.
History of Section.
P.L. 1937, ch. 2497, § 4; P.L. 1938, ch. 2612, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 613, § 4; impl. am. P.L. 1939, ch. 660, § 180; G.L. 1956, § 21-16-4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-17 - Eggs › Section 21-17-1. - Shell eggs — Labeling as to grade and size.

§ 21-17-1. Shell eggs — Labeling as to grade and size.
All shell eggs sold or offered for sale in this state for human consumption shall be labeled with the grade and size designation as set forth in the Rhode Island consumer grades.
History of Section.
G.L. 1938, ch. 211, § 1; P.L. 1947, ch. 1880, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 21-17-1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-17 - Eggs › Section 21-17-2. - Consumer grades — Regulations.

§ 21-17-2. Consumer grades — Regulations.
The Rhode Island consumer grades for shell eggs shall be designated AA-A-B-C. The standards for quality of individual eggs shall be established by the director of environmental management under the provisions of § 21-20-5 and shall apply to all shell eggs sold or offered for sale. The means used in determining these grades and standards shall be specified by regulation issued by the director of environmental management.
History of Section.
G.L. 1938, ch. 211, § 2; P.L. 1947, ch. 1880, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 21-17-2; impl. am. P.L. 1965, ch. 137, § 1; P.L. 1977, ch. 171, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 21 - Food and Drugs › Chapter 21-17 - Eggs › Section 21-17-3. - Establishment of size and weight classes.

§ 21-17-3. Establishment of size and weight classes.
The size and weight classes for all shell eggs sold or offered for sale in Rhode Island shall be established by the director of environmental management under the provisions of § 21-20-5.
History of Section.
G.L. 1938, ch. 211, § 3; P.L. 1947, ch. 1880, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 21-17-3; impl. am. P.L. 1965, ch. 137, § 1.