reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-3, 31-5-4. - Repealed.

§ 31-5-3, 31-5-4. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1953, ch. 3232, § 2; P.L. 1954, ch. 3367, § 2; P.L. 1981, ch. 219, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 1991, ch. 44, art. 14, § 2, effective June 7, 1991.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-5. - Dealers’ license required — “Dealer” defined.

§ 31-5-5. Dealers’ license required — “Dealer” defined.
No motor vehicle dealer shall engage in business as a dealer in this state without a license for it as provided in §§ 31-5-6 — 31-5-10. Any person, firm, or corporation who sells or acts as a broker with respect to the sale of more than four (4) vehicles in any one calendar year shall be considered a motor vehicle dealer. Any person, firm or corporation who, prior to the retail sale of a motor vehicle, converts, or otherwise assembles, installs, or affixes a body, cab or special equipment to a chassis or who adds to, subtracts from, or modifies a previously assembled or manufactured motor vehicle, shall be considered a motor vehicle dealer.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 7, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 31-5-5; P.L. 1975, ch. 292, § 1; P.L. 1981, ch. 219, § 1; P.L. 1988, ch. 177, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 50, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-6. - Application for license.

§ 31-5-6. Application for license.
(a)
Application for a license shall be made in duplicate to the licensor at the time and in the form and shall contain any information as the licensor shall require, and shall be accompanied by the required fee.
(b)
The licensor may require in the application, or otherwise, information relating to:
(1)
The applicant’s financial standing;
(2)
The applicant’s business integrity;
(3)
Whether the applicant has an established place of business and is engaged primarily in the business of buying and selling and servicing motor vehicles;
(4)
Whether the applicant is able to properly conduct the business of a “motor vehicle dealer”; and
(5)
Any other pertinent information consistent with the safeguarding of public interest in the location in which the applicant proposes to engage in business, all of which may be considered by the licensor in determining whether the grant of the application is in the public interest.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 7, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 31-5-6.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-7. - Duration of license.

§ 31-5-7. Duration of license.
(a)
Application for license shall be made to the department. Licenses shall be valid, unless sooner revoked or suspended, until December 31st of each year for one year and shall be renewable on or before expiration, upon application and payment of the fee required by this chapter.
(b)
Commencing January 1, 2015, licenses shall be valid, unless sooner revoked or suspended, until December 31, 2017, and shall be renewable thereafter every three (3) years.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 7, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 31-5-7; P.L. 1975, ch. 68, § 1; P.L. 1986, ch. 369, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 44, art. 14, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 356, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 409, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-8. - License — Fee.

§ 31-5-8. License — Fee.
(a)
The license fee for each year shall be as follows: the fee for the license to each motor vehicle dealer shall be three hundred dollars ($300) plus a fee in like amount for each office or branch.
(b)
Commencing January 1, 2015, the license fee for the three-year (3) license duration shall be nine hundred dollars ($900) payable in installments of three hundred dollars ($300) per year.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2959, art. 7, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 31-5-8; P.L. 1960, ch. 75, § 5; P.L. 1986, ch. 219, § 1; P.L. 1986, ch. 369, § 1; P.L. 2010, ch. 23, art. 9, § 3; P.L. 2014, ch. 356, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 409, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-9. - Location specified — Display of license.

§ 31-5-9. Location specified — Display of license.
The licenses of dealers shall specify the location of the office or branch and must be conspicuously displayed there, and in case the location is changed, an application shall be filed with the licensor requesting the change in location and the permission of the licensor shall be necessary for the change in location.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 7, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 31-5-9.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-10. - License required for dealers’ plates.

§ 31-5-10. License required for dealers’ plates.
(a)
No motor vehicle dealer, unless licensed in accordance with §§ 31-5-1 — 31-5-20, shall be permitted to register or receive or use dealers’ license plates as limited by the number approved by the department for the dealer.
(b)
Whenever the department revokes or suspends a dealer’s license pursuant to § 31-5-11, or whenever a dealer’s license expires and is not renewed, the department may take possession of the licensee’s dealer’s license, dealer’s license plates, and temporary plates until said licensee is reinstated by the department.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 7, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 31-5-10; P.L. 1964, ch. 165, § 2; P.L. 1981, ch. 219, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 44, art. 14, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-11. - Grounds for denial, suspension, or revocation of license.

§ 31-5-11. Grounds for denial, suspension, or revocation of license.
The department may deny an application for a license, or suspend or revoke a license after it has been granted, for the following reasons:
(1)
On proof of unfitness of applicant to do business as a motor vehicle dealer.
(2)
For any material misstatement by an applicant in an application for a license.
(3)
For any willful failure to comply with the provisions of this section or with any rule or regulation promulgated by the department under §§ 31-5-1 — 31-5-20.
(4)
For willfully defrauding any buyer of a motor vehicle.
(5)
For any willful failure to perform any written agreement with any buyer of a motor vehicle.
(6)
For having made a fraudulent sale, transaction, or repossession.
(7)
For any fraudulent misrepresentation, circumvention, or concealment, through whatsoever subterfuge or device, of any of the material particulars of any sale to any buyer of a motor vehicle.
(8)
For knowingly permitting any salesperson to sell or exchange, or offer or attempt to sell or exchange, any motor vehicle except for the licensed motor vehicle dealer by whom he or she is employed, or to offer, transfer, or assign any sale or exchange, that he or she may have negotiated, to any other dealer.
(9)
For the employment of any fraudulent device, method, or process in connection with the compliance with any requirement under statutes of this state with respect to the retaking of goods under a retail installment contract and the redemption and resale of those goods.
(10)
For having indulged in any unconscionable practice relating to business as a motor vehicle dealer.
(11)
For having violated any law relating to the sale, distribution, or financing of motor vehicles.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 7, § 4; P.L. 1953, ch. 3232, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 31-5-11; P.L. 1991, ch. 44, art. 14, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-12. - Responsibility of licensee for acts of agents.

§ 31-5-12. Responsibility of licensee for acts of agents.
It shall be sufficient cause for the denial, suspension, or revocation of any license issued under this chapter, that any officer, director, partner, trustee, or agent, including independent salespersons of the licensee, has been found by the department of revenue to have engaged in any conduct, act, or omission which would be cause for refusing, suspending, or revoking a license to that party as an individual.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 7, § 8; G.L. 1956, § 31-5-12; P.L. 1986, ch. 486, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 44, art. 14, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 98, § 5; P.L. 2008, ch. 145, § 5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-13. - Procedure for suspension or revocation of license.

§ 31-5-13. Procedure for suspension or revocation of license.
No license shall be suspended or revoked, except after a hearing in accordance with the administrative procedures act, §§ 42-35-1 — 42-35-18.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 7, § 6; G.L. 1956, § 31-5-13; P.L. 1981, ch. 219, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-14. - Penalties for violations by dealers.

§ 31-5-14. Penalties for violations by dealers.
(a)
Upon the complaint of the department, any person violating any of the provisions of §§ 31-5-1 — 31-5-20, shall, upon conviction for the first offense, be punished by a fine of not less than fifty dollars ($50.00) nor more than one hundred dollars ($100), or by imprisonment for not less than ten (10) days nor more than thirty (30) days, or by both a fine and imprisonment. For a second or subsequent conviction, that person shall be fined not less than one hundred dollars ($100) nor more than one thousand dollars ($1,000), or by imprisonment for not less than thirty (30) days nor more than six (6) months, or by both a fine and imprisonment.
(b)
If the department shall have reason to believe that any person, firm, corporation, or association is violating the provisions of this chapter, the department may issue its order to the person, firm, corporation, or association commanding them to appear before the department, at a hearing to be held not sooner than ten (10) days nor later than twenty (20) days after issuance of the order, to show cause why the department should not issue an order to the person to cease and desist from violating the provisions of this chapter. The order to show cause may be served on any person, firm, corporation, or association named in it by any person in the same manner that a summons in a civil action may be served, or by mailing a copy of the order to the person at any address at which he or she has done business or at which he or she lives. If at the hearing the department shall be satisfied that the person is in fact violating any provision of this chapter, then the department shall order the person in writing to cease and desist from the violation. All these hearings shall be conducted in accordance with chapter 35 of title 42. If the person shall subsequently fail to comply with the order of the department, the superior court for Providence County shall have jurisdiction upon the complaint of the department to restrain and enjoin the person from violating this chapter.
(c)
In addition to the fines described in subsection (a) of this section, the department may impose fines on holders of any license issued by the department pursuant to this chapter of not less than fifty dollars ($50.00) nor more than one thousand dollars ($1,000), for violations of any of the provisions of §§ 31-5-1 — 31-5-20 and §§ 31-5-33 — 31-5-39, or for violation of any rules or regulations promulgated pursuant to § 31-5-2.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 7, § 5; P.L. 1953, ch. 3232, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 31-5-14; P.L. 1981, ch. 219, § 1; P.L. 1986, ch. 486, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 334, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 44, art. 14, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-15. - Examination of records — Altered or reset odometers.

§ 31-5-15. Examination of records — Altered or reset odometers.
(a)
The department or its duly authorized representative may inspect the pertinent books, records, letters, and contracts of the licensee relating to any written complaint made against the licensee. If the licensee is found guilty of violating any of the provisions of §§ 31-5-1 — 31-5-20, or any lawful order of the department, the actual cost of each of the examinations shall be paid by the licensee within thirty (30) days after demand for them by the department, and the department may maintain an action for the recovery of the cost in any court of competent jurisdiction.
(b)
The department finds that purchasers, when buying motor vehicles, rely heavily on the odometer reading as an index of the condition and value of the vehicle; that purchasers are entitled to rely on the odometer reading as an accurate reflection of the mileage actually traveled by the vehicle; and that an accurate indication of the mileage traveled by a motor vehicle assists the purchaser in determining its safety and reliability. For the protection of purchasers with respect to the sale of motor vehicles having altered or reset odometers, licensed motor vehicle dealers are directly responsible to their retail/wholesale customers to repurchase the motor vehicles bearing altered or reset odometers for the original selling price paid by the customer, or an amount as determined by the department.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 7, § 7; P.L. 1953, ch. 3232, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 31-5-15; P.L. 1986, ch. 486, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 44, art. 14, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-16. - Complaint to set aside department order.

§ 31-5-16. Complaint to set aside department order.
Any licensee or other person in interest being dissatisfied with the final order of the department, within twenty (20) days after the entry of that order by the department, may file a complaint in the superior court of the state of Rhode Island against the department as respondent to vacate and set aside the order on the ground that the order is unlawful and unreasonable.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 7, § 7; P.L. 1953, ch. 3232, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 31-5-16; P.L. 1991, ch. 44, art. 14, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-17. - Witnesses before department — Report of findings.

§ 31-5-17. Witnesses before department — Report of findings.
The department shall have the power in hearings and trials arising under §§ 31-5-1 — 31-5-20 to determine the place where the hearing shall be held, to subpoena witnesses, to take depositions of witnesses residing without the state in the manner provided for in civil actions in courts of record, to pay witnesses the fees and the mileage for their attendance as is provided for witnesses in civil actions in courts of record, and to administer oaths. Whenever a hearing or trial shall be held before any authorized representative of the licensor, the representative shall report his or her findings in writing to the licensor which shall then make its ruling and orders.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 7, § 10; P.L. 1953 ch. 3232, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 31-5-17; P.L. 1991, ch. 44, art. 14, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-17.1. - Repealed.

§ 31-5-17.1. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 219, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 31-5-17.1; Repealed by P.L. 1986, ch. 369, § 2, effective June 24, 1986.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-18. - Records of transactions maintained by dealers.

§ 31-5-18. Records of transactions maintained by dealers.
Every licensee shall maintain a record in form as prescribed by the department of:
(1)
Every vehicle of a type subject to registration which is bought, sold, or exchanged by the licensee or received or accepted by the licensee for sale or exchange.
(2)
Every new or used exterior part or accessory which is bought or otherwise acquired and every motor vehicle, chassis, or motor vehicle engine which is sold or otherwise disposed of.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 7, § 11; P.L. 1953, ch. 3232, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 31-5-18; P.L. 1991, ch. 44, art. 14, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-18.1. - Inspection of records and premises.

§ 31-5-18.1. Inspection of records and premises.
All records kept in accordance with the provisions of this chapter shall be open to inspection by the department and its duly authorized representatives, by the division of motor vehicles, and by any state or municipal official or police officer during reasonable business hours.
History of Section.
P.L. 1983, ch. 221, § 10; P.L. 1991, ch. 44, art. 14, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-18.2. - Sale of used motor vehicles — Annual reports.

§ 31-5-18.2. Sale of used motor vehicles — Annual reports.
Every licensed dealer shall file with the department an annual report which lists:
(1)
The total number of used motor vehicles sold in the previous year by the dealer; and
(2)
The total number of used motor vehicles sold without a warranty pursuant to chapter 5.4 of this title.
(3)
The licensed dealer shall specify the make, year, and sale price of each used motor vehicle sold without a warranty pursuant to chapter 5.4 of this title.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 342, § 2; P.L. 1991, ch. 44, art. 14, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-18.3. - Sale of all-terrain vehicles (ATV’s).

§ 31-5-18.3. Sale of all-terrain vehicles (ATV’s).
(a)
No motor vehicle dealer licensed under the provisions of this chapter shall sell, lease, or rent any class of all-terrain vehicle to any person under the age of sixteen (16) years.
(b)
Violations of this section shall be grounds for denial, suspension or revocation of the dealers license under § 31-5-11 and also be subject to the penalties provided by § 31-5-14.
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 155, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-19. - Sunday business permitted.

§ 31-5-19. Sunday business permitted.
(a)
Motor vehicle dealers shall be permitted to have open for the conduct of business any display room or outdoor display lot where motor vehicles are exhibited on the first day of the week, commonly called Sunday, between the hours of 12:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.
(b)
“Business” as used in this section means the sale of or the attempt to sell motor vehicles. The storage alone of motor vehicles in open lots shall not be held to be displaying for sale purposes, or the use of dealer plates for transporting motor vehicles from one point to another shall not be considered to be for display or sale purposes.
(c)
Any person or persons, partnership, firm, or corporation violating any of the provisions of this section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 7, § 12; P.L. 1952, ch. 2937, § 4; G.L. 1956, § 31-5-19; P.L. 2007, ch. 73, art. 29, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-19.1. - Auction of antique and classic motor vehicles.

§ 31-5-19.1. Auction of antique and classic motor vehicles.
The provisions of § 31-5-19 shall not apply to an auction of classic motor vehicles or antique motor vehicles as defined in § 31-1-3. A “classic motor” vehicle means a motor vehicle that is not sold in the normal course of business by a dealer and is determined to be a motor vehicle having some unique or special value as a collectible, as defined by the department. The department shall have the power to license the auctions and provide for any rules and regulations that it shall deem appropriate.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 44, art. 14, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-20. - Appropriations for dealer licensing law.

§ 31-5-20. Appropriations for dealer licensing law.
The general assembly shall annually appropriate any sum that it may deem necessary to carry out the purposes of §§ 31-5-1 — 31-5-19, and the state controller is authorized and directed to draw his or her orders upon the general treasurer for the payment of the sum, or so much of it as may be required from time to time, upon the receipt by him or her of proper authenticated vouchers.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 7, § 15; P.L. 1953, ch. 3232, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 31-5-20.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-21. - Manufacturer’s license required.

§ 31-5-21. Manufacturer’s license required.
(a)
No manufacturer, factory representative, or distributor shall engage in business as a manufacturer, factory representative, or distributor in this state without a license to do so as provided in § 31-5-22.
(b)
For the purpose of this chapter, each division of a motor vehicle manufacturer or distributor shall be considered a separate manufacturer or distributor for purposes of licensing under this chapter. The department of revenue is empowered to obtain from the Rhode Island superior court for Providence County a restraining order temporarily, preliminarily, and permanently restraining any manufacturer, distributor, or factory representative from engaging in business within this state unless licensed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 8, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 31-5-21; P.L. 1960, ch. 155, § 2; P.L. 1987, ch. 114, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 44, art. 14, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 98, § 5; P.L. 2008, ch. 145, § 5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-22. - Application for license — Fee — Expiration.

§ 31-5-22. Application for license — Fee — Expiration.
(a)
Any person desiring to be licensed as a manufacturer, factory representative, or distributor shall apply to the department of revenue upon a form containing any information that the department shall require. The department may require with the application or, otherwise, information relating to the applicant’s solvency, his or her financial standing, or other pertinent matter commensurate with the safeguarding of the public interest, all of which may be considered by the department in determining the fitness of the applicant to engage in the business for which the applicant desires the license.
(b)(1)
Each application of a factory representative shall be accompanied by a fee of one hundred dollars ($100). Commencing January 1, 2015, the factory representative license fee for the three-year (3) license duration shall be three hundred dollars ($300) and shall be payable in installments of one hundred dollars ($100) per year.
(2)
Each application of a manufacturer or distributor shall be accompanied by a fee of three hundred dollars ($300). Commencing January 1, 2015, the manufacturers or distributors license fee for the three-year (3) license duration shall be nine hundred dollars ($900) and shall be payable in installments of three hundred dollars ($300) per year.
(c)(1)
All licenses shall be granted or refused within thirty (30) days after the application is filed and shall expire, unless revoked or suspended before that time, on December 31 of the calendar year for which they are granted.
(2)
Commencing January 1, 2015, licenses shall be valid, unless sooner revoked or suspended, until December 31, 2017, and shall be renewable thereafter every three (3) years.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 8, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 31-5-22; P.L. 1960, ch. 155, § 2; P.L. 1964, ch. 167, § 1; P.L. 1983, ch. 299, § 1; P.L. 1987, ch. 114, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 44, art. 14, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 98, § 5; P.L. 2008, ch. 145, § 5; P.L. 2010, ch. 23, art. 9, § 4; P.L. 2014, ch. 356, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 409, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-23. - Grounds for denial, suspension, or revocation of license.

§ 31-5-23. Grounds for denial, suspension, or revocation of license.
A license may be denied, suspended, or revoked on the following grounds:
(1)
Proof of unfitness of the applicant.
(2)
Material misstatement by the applicant in his or her application for a license.
(3)
Willful failure of the applicant or licensee to comply with any provision of §§ 31-5-21 — 31-5-27, §§ 31-5.1-1 — 31-5.1-16, and/or any rule or regulation promulgated by the department in accordance with § 31-5.1-3.
(4)
Because the applicant or licensee has indulged in any illegal act as determined by the department relating to his or her business.
(5)
Because the applicant or licensee has coerced or attempted to coerce any motor vehicle dealer to accept delivery of any motor vehicle or vehicles, parts, or accessories for them, or any other commodities which shall not have been ordered by the dealer.
(6)
Because the applicant or licensee has attempted to coerce, or has coerced, any motor vehicle dealer to enter into any agreement with the manufacturer, factory branch, distributor, or representative, as the case may be.
(7)
Because the applicant or licensee has unfairly or without due regard to the equities of a motor vehicle dealer, or without just provocation, threatened to cancel the franchise of the motor vehicle dealer.
(8)
Because the applicant or licensee has unfairly, or without due regard to the equities of a motor vehicle dealer, or without just provocation, cancelled the franchise of the motor vehicle dealer.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 8, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 31-5-23; P.L. 1989, ch. 174, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 44, art. 14, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-24. - Denial of license — Hearing.

§ 31-5-24. Denial of license — Hearing.
The department may, without prior notice, deny the application for a license within thirty (30) days of its receipt by written notice to the applicant, stating the grounds for the denial. Upon request by the applicant, whose license shall have been so denied, the department shall set the time and place of a hearing upon a denial, and the department shall conduct the hearing with reasonable promptness.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 8, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 31-5-24; P.L. 1989, ch. 174, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 44, art. 14, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-25. - Hearing on suspension or revocation of license.

§ 31-5-25. Hearing on suspension or revocation of license.
No license shall be suspended or revoked except after a hearing. The department of revenue shall give the licensee at least five (5) days’ written notice of the time and place of the hearing, together with the reasons for the department’s proposed action.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 8, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 31-5-25; P.L. 1989, ch. 174, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 44, art. 14, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 98, § 5; P.L. 2008, ch. 145, § 5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-26. - Appeal from the department of revenue.

§ 31-5-26. Appeal from the department of revenue.
Any licensee or other person in interest being dissatisfied with an order of the department of revenue may appeal the order to the sixth division of the district court pursuant to the procedure established pursuant to § 42-35-15.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 8, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 31-5-26; P.L. 1989, ch. 174, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 44, art. 14, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 453, § 9; P.L. 1999, ch. 218, art. 5, § 11; P.L. 2008, ch. 98, § 5; P.L. 2008, ch. 145, § 5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-27. - Criminal liability for violations.

§ 31-5-27. Criminal liability for violations.
Any person, being a manufacturer, distributor, or factory representative, who violates any provision of §§ 31-5-21 — 31-5-27, or who does any act enumerated in § 31-5-23 as a ground for the denial, suspension, or revocation of a license, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 8, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 31-5-27; P.L. 1989, ch. 174, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-28 - — 31-5-32.7. Repealed.

§ 31-5-28 — 31-5-32.7. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 9, §§ 1, 2; P.L. 1963, ch. 168, § 1; P.L. 1964, ch. 46, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 1967, ch. 213, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-33. - Rental of motor vehicles — Licenses required.

§ 31-5-33. Rental of motor vehicles — Licenses required.
(a)
No person, firm, or corporation, whether resident or nonresident, shall, without securing a license, grant a franchise or license, or continue to grant a franchise or license, to any other person, firm, or corporation to use his, her, or its name, trademark, or trade name, whether registered or unregistered, in the business of renting in this state motor vehicles for transportation of persons or property.
(b)
No person, firm, or corporation, whether resident or nonresident, shall engage in this state in the business of renting or leasing motor vehicles to any other person, firm, or corporation without securing a license. Any person, firm, or corporation who rents or leases more than five (5) motor vehicles in any one year shall be considered to be engaged in the business of renting or leasing motor vehicles.
(c)
Notwithstanding the provisions of any general or public law to the contrary, the authority to issue licenses for the rental or leasing of motorized bicycles and/or motorized tricycles in the town of New Shoreham shall be vested exclusively in the town council of the town of New Shoreham, pursuant to the provisions of chapter 19.3 of this title.
History of Section.
P.L. 1962, ch. 233, § 1; P.L. 1965, ch. 100, § 1; P.L. 1984 (S.S.), ch. 457, § 2; P.L. 1985, ch. 442, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-34. - Application for license — Fee — Expiration.

§ 31-5-34. Application for license — Fee — Expiration.
(a)(1)
Any person, firm, or corporation requiring a license pursuant to this chapter shall apply to the department upon a form specifying any information that the department shall require. The department may require with an application, or otherwise, information relating to the applicant’s solvency, his or her or its financial standing, or any other matter that the department may deem pertinent to safeguard the public interest, all of which may be considered by the department in determining the fitness of the applicant to be licensed pursuant to this chapter. Each application shall be accompanied by a fee of one hundred dollars ($100). All licenses shall be granted or refused within thirty (30) days after the application, and shall expire, unless sooner revoked or suspended, on December 31 of the calendar year for which they are granted.
(2)
Commencing January 1, 2015, licenses shall be valid, unless sooner revoked or suspended, until December 31, 2017, and shall be renewable thereafter every three (3) years. Commencing January 1, 2015, the license fee for the three-year (3) license duration shall be three hundred dollars ($300) and shall be payable in installments of one hundred dollars ($100) per year.
(b)
Notwithstanding the provisions of any general or public law to the contrary, the authority to issue licenses for the rental or leasing of motorized bicycles and/or motorized tricycles in the town of New Shoreham shall be vested exclusively in the town council of the town of New Shoreham pursuant to the provisions of chapter 19.3 of title 31.
History of Section.
P.L. 1962, ch. 233, § 1; P.L. 1984, ch. 207, § 1; P.L. 1984 (S.S.), ch. 457, § 2; P.L. 1989, ch. 334, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 44, art. 14, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 356, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 409, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-35. - Grounds for denial, suspension, or revocation of license.

§ 31-5-35. Grounds for denial, suspension, or revocation of license.
A license provided for pursuant to this chapter may be denied, suspended, or revoked on any of the following grounds:
(1)
Proof of unfitness of applicant.
(2)
Material misstatement of applicant in the application for a license.
(3)
Because the applicant or licensee, or any subsidiary or any corporation owned or controlled by the applicant or licensee, has unfairly or without just provocation or cause cancelled or threatened to cancel the franchise or license of an existing or prior holder to use his, her, or its name, trademark, or trade name.
History of Section.
P.L. 1962, ch. 233, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-36. - Denial of license — Hearing.

§ 31-5-36. Denial of license — Hearing.
The department may, without prior notice, deny an application for a license within thirty (30) days of the receipt of an application, by written notice to the applicant stating the grounds for the denial. Upon a request by an applicant who is so denied a license, the department shall set the time and place of a hearing upon the denial and the department shall conduct the hearing with reasonable promptness.
History of Section.
P.L. 1962, ch. 233, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 334, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 44, art. 14, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-37. - Hearing on suspension or revocation of license.

§ 31-5-37. Hearing on suspension or revocation of license.
No license shall be suspended or revoked except after a hearing. The department shall give the licensee at least five (5) days written notice of the time and place of the hearing, together with a statement of the grounds for the proposed action.
History of Section.
P.L. 1962, ch. 233, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 334, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 44, art. 14, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-38. - Certiorari from the department.

§ 31-5-38. Certiorari from the department.
Any licensee or other person in interest being dissatisfied with an order of the department of revenue may file a petition for certiorari in the supreme court.
History of Section.
P.L. 1962, ch. 233, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 334, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 44, art. 14, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 98, § 5; P.L. 2008, ch. 145, § 5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5 - Dealers’, Manufacturers’, and Rental Licenses › Section 31-5-39. - Criminal liability for violations.

§ 31-5-39. Criminal liability for violations.
Any person, firm, or corporation who violates the provisions of § 31-5-33 shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
History of Section.
P.L. 1962, ch. 233, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5.1 - Regulation of Business Practices Among Motor Vehicle Manufacturers, Distributors, and Dealers › Section 31-5.1-2. - Application of chapter.

§ 31-5.1-2. Application of chapter.
Any person who engages directly or indirectly in purposeful contacts within this state in connection with the offering or advertising for sale of, or has business dealings with respect to, a motor vehicle within the state shall be subject to the provisions of this chapter and shall be subject to the jurisdiction of the courts of this state, upon service of process in accordance with the provisions of the general laws.
History of Section.
P.L. 1974, ch. 292, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5.1 - Regulation of Business Practices Among Motor Vehicle Manufacturers, Distributors, and Dealers › Section 31-5.1-3. - Unlawful acts and practices.

§ 31-5.1-3. Unlawful acts and practices.
(a)
Unfair methods of competition, and unfair or deceptive acts or practices, as defined in this chapter, are declared to be unlawful.
(b)
In construing subsection (a) of this section, the courts may be guided by the interpretations of § 45 of the Federal Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C. § 45), as from time to time amended.
(c)
The department of revenue (hereinafter in this chapter, the “department”) may make rules and regulations interpreting the provisions of subsection (a) of this section. The rules and regulations shall not be inconsistent with the rules, regulations, and decisions of the Federal Trade Commission and the federal courts interpreting the provisions of the Federal Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C. § 45), as from time to time amended.
History of Section.
P.L. 1974, ch. 292, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 174, § 2; P.L. 1991, ch. 44, art. 14, § 3; P.L. 2008, ch. 98, § 6; P.L. 2008, ch. 145, § 6; P.L. 2009, ch. 227, § 1; P.L. 2009, ch. 228, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5.1 - Regulation of Business Practices Among Motor Vehicle Manufacturers, Distributors, and Dealers › Section 31-5.1-5. - Delivery obligations.

§ 31-5.1-5. Delivery obligations.
Every manufacturer shall specify to the dealer the delivery and preparation obligations of its motor vehicle dealers prior to delivery of new motor vehicles to retail buyers. A copy of the delivery and preparation obligations of its motor vehicle dealers, and a schedule of the compensation to be paid to its motor vehicle dealers for the work and services they shall be required to perform in connection with the delivery and preparation obligations, shall be filed with the department by every motor vehicle manufacturer, and shall constitute the dealer’s only responsibility for product liability as between the dealer and the manufacturer. The compensation as set forth on the schedule shall be in accordance with §§ 6A-2-329 and 31-5.1-6.
History of Section.
P. L. 1974, ch. 292, § 1; P.L. 1982, ch. 448, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 174, § 2; P.L. 1991, ch. 44, art. 14, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5.1 - Regulation of Business Practices Among Motor Vehicle Manufacturers, Distributors, and Dealers › Section 31-5.1-7. - Unlawful restrictions on dealerships.

§ 31-5.1-7. Unlawful restrictions on dealerships.
It shall be unlawful directly or indirectly to impose unreasonable restrictions on the motor vehicle dealer or franchisee relative to transfer, sale, right to renew, termination, discipline, non-competition covenants, site-control (whether by sublease, collateral pledge of lease, or otherwise), right of first refusal to purchase, option to purchase, compliance with subjective standards, and assertion of legal or equitable rights.
History of Section.
P.L. 1974, ch. 292, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5.1 - Regulation of Business Practices Among Motor Vehicle Manufacturers, Distributors, and Dealers › Section 31-5.1-8. - Agreements.

§ 31-5.1-8. Agreements.
The provisions of this chapter shall apply to all written or oral agreements between a manufacturer and a motor vehicle dealer including, but not limited to, the franchise offering; the franchise agreement; sales of goods, services, or advertising; leases of mortgages of real or personal property; promises to pay; security interests; pledges; insurance contracts; advertising contracts; construction or installation contracts; servicing contracts; and all other agreements in which the manufacturer, wholesaler, or distributor has any direct or indirect interest.
History of Section.
P.L. 1974, ch. 292, § 1; P.L. 1981, ch. 346, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5.1 - Regulation of Business Practices Among Motor Vehicle Manufacturers, Distributors, and Dealers › Section 31-5.1-9. - Product liability indemnification.

§ 31-5.1-9. Product liability indemnification.
Notwithstanding the terms of any franchise agreement, it shall be a violation of this law for any new motor vehicle manufacturer to fail to indemnify and hold harmless its franchised new motor vehicle dealers against any judgment or settlement for damages including, but not limited to, court costs and reasonable attorney’s fees of the new motor vehicle dealer, arising out of complaints, claims, or lawsuits including, but not limited to, strict liability, negligence, misrepresentation, warranty (express or implied), or revocation of the sale as defined in § 6A-2-608, to the extent that the judgment or settlement related to the alleged defective or negligent manufacture, assembly, or design of new motor vehicles, parts, or accessories or any other function of the manufacturer, beyond the control of the dealer.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 346, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5.1 - Regulation of Business Practices Among Motor Vehicle Manufacturers, Distributors, and Dealers › Section 31-5.1-10. - Free association.

§ 31-5.1-10. Free association.
Every franchisee shall have the right of free association with other franchisees for any lawful purpose.
History of Section.
P.L. 1974, ch. 292, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5.1 - Regulation of Business Practices Among Motor Vehicle Manufacturers, Distributors, and Dealers › Section 31-5.1-11. - Sales to the state.

§ 31-5.1-11. Sales to the state.
In connection with a sale of a motor vehicle or vehicles to the state or to any political subdivision, no manufacturer, distributor or wholesaler shall offer any discounts, refunds, or any other similar type of inducement to any dealer without making the same offer or offers to all other of its dealers within the relevant market area, and if any inducements are made, the manufacturer, distributor, or wholesaler shall give simultaneous notice to all of its dealers within the relevant market area.
History of Section.
P.L. 1974, ch. 292, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5.1 - Regulation of Business Practices Among Motor Vehicle Manufacturers, Distributors, and Dealers › Section 31-5.1-12. - Enforcement.

§ 31-5.1-12. Enforcement.
(a)
The department shall enforce compliance with the provisions of this chapter. If the department deems that there has been a violation of this chapter, the department shall hold a show cause hearing for revocation or suspension of a license in accordance with the Administrative Procedures Act, chapter 35 of title 42.
(b)
Any person regulated by this chapter shall have his or her license to operate in this state revoked or suspended upon a finding by the department of a failure to comply with the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1974, ch. 292, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 174, § 2; P.L. 1991, ch. 44, art. 14, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5.1 - Regulation of Business Practices Among Motor Vehicle Manufacturers, Distributors, and Dealers › Section 31-5.1-13. - Civil remedies.

§ 31-5.1-13. Civil remedies.
(a)
Notwithstanding the terms, provisions, or conditions of any agreement or franchise or the terms or provisions of any waiver, any consumer who is injured by a violation of this chapter, or any party to a franchise who is so injured in his or her business or property by a violation of this chapter relating to that franchise, or any person so injured because he or she refuses to accede to a proposal for an arrangement which, if consummated, would be in violation of this chapter, may bring a civil action in the superior court to enjoin further violations, and to recover the actual damages sustained by that person together with the costs of the suit, including a reasonable attorney’s fee.
(b)
Any motor vehicle dealer or franchisee shall have the right to civil damages; including a reasonable attorney’s fee, for any loss sustained as a result of a violation of this chapter. A final judgment, order, or decree rendered against a person in any civil, criminal, or administrative proceeding under the United States anti-trust laws, under the Federal Trade Commission Act, 15 U.S.C. § 41 et seq., or under this chapter shall be regarded as prima facie evidence against that person subject to the conditions set forth in the United States anti-trust laws (15 U.S.C. § 16).
History of Section.
P.L. 1974, ch. 292, § 1; P.L. 1981, ch. 346, § 1; P.L. 1982, ch. 448, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5.1 - Regulation of Business Practices Among Motor Vehicle Manufacturers, Distributors, and Dealers › Section 31-5.1-14. - Contracts void.

§ 31-5.1-14. Contracts void.
Any contract, part of a contract, or practice under a contract in violation of any provision of this chapter shall be deemed against public policy and shall be void and unenforceable.
History of Section.
P.L. 1974, ch. 292, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5.1 - Regulation of Business Practices Among Motor Vehicle Manufacturers, Distributors, and Dealers › Section 31-5.1-15. - Limitation of action.

§ 31-5.1-15. Limitation of action.
Actions arising out of any provision of this chapter shall be commenced within four (4) years next after the cause of action accrues. If a person liable under this chapter conceals the cause of action from the knowledge of the person entitled to bring it, the period prior to the discovery of his or her cause of action by the person so entitled shall be excluded in determining the time limited for the commencement of the action. If a cause of action accrues during the pendency of any civil, criminal, or administrative proceeding against a person brought by the United States, or any of its agencies, under the anti-trust laws, the Federal Trade Commission Act, 15 U.S.C. § 41 et seq., or any other federal act or the laws of the state related to anti-trust laws or to franchising, that action may be commenced within one year after the final disposition of that civil, criminal, or administrative proceeding.
History of Section.
P.L. 1974, ch. 292, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-5.1 - Regulation of Business Practices Among Motor Vehicle Manufacturers, Distributors, and Dealers › Section 31-5.1-16. - Bill to set aside department order.

§ 31-5.1-16. Bill to set aside department order.
Any licensee or other person in interest, who is dissatisfied with the final order of the department, may appeal to the sixth division of the district court pursuant to the procedure established in § 42-35-15.
History of Section.
P.L. 1974, ch. 292, § 1; P.L. 1982, ch. 448, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 174, § 2; P.L. 1991, ch. 44, art. 14, § 3; P.L. 1992, ch. 453, § 10; P.L. 1999, ch. 218, art. 5, § 13.