reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-2.1. - Presumption of in-state use or intrastate commerce upon use or transportation of liquefied natural gas within the state.

§ 39-1-2.1. Presumption of in-state use or intrastate commerce upon use or transportation of liquefied natural gas within the state.
Whereas it is in the public interest of the state that the personal safety of its inhabitants and visitors be protected, and that property situated within the borders of the state be safeguarded, and whereas it is well known and accepted that the use, storage, transmission, or transportation of liquefied natural gas involves an opportunity for the cause of personal injury or property damage, the general assembly hereby declares that the reasonable exercise of its police power for the safety and welfare of the inhabitants and visitors of the state and for the protection of property located within the state requires the control and regulation of the use, storage, transmission, and transportation of liquefied natural gas. Accordingly, the use, storage, transmission, or transportation of liquefied natural gas within the state shall raise a presumption that the liquefied natural gas is intended for use or consumption within the state or for transmission or transportation from one place to another within the state; and the general laws of the state applicable to public utilities and carriers and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder shall apply thereto; provided, however, (1) That in the safety and security zone for LNG tankers in transit upon the navigable waterways of the state of Rhode Island, established by the United States Coast Guard by 33 C.F.R. § 165.121, and authorized by the United States Code Title 33 Chapter 25 Section 1225, there shall be no:
(1)
LNG ships in transit must maintain an exclusion zone of two (2) miles ahead, one mile behind; five hundred (500) yards on either side, and thirty (30) feet overhead clearance within which there shall be no:
(a)
Persons;
(b)
Piers, wharves, docks, bulkheads, or similar structures within or contiguous to navigable structures;
(c)
Waterfront facilities on land located within the state of Rhode Island;
(d)
Flammable materials;
(e)
Hunting grounds or areas from which an incendiary device could be launched; or
(f)
Welding, torch cutting, or other hotwork within such prescribed safety and security zone.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 270, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 565, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-3. - Commission and division established — Functions of commission — Administrator.

§ 39-1-3. Commission and division established — Functions of commission — Administrator.
(a)
To implement the legislative policy set forth in § 39-1-1 and to serve as the agencies of the state in effectuating the legislative purpose, there are hereby established a public utilities commission and a division of public utilities and carriers. The commission shall serve as a quasi-judicial tribunal with jurisdiction, powers, and duties to implement and enforce the standards of conduct under § 39-1-27.6 and to hold investigations and hearings involving the rates, tariffs, tolls, and charges, and the sufficiency and reasonableness of facilities and accommodations of railroad, gas, electric distribution, water, telephone, telegraph, and pipeline public utilities; the location of railroad depots and stations, and the control of grade crossings; the revocation, suspension, or alteration of certificates issued pursuant to § 39-19-4; appeals under § 39-1-30; petitions under § 39-1-31; and proceedings under § 39-1-32.
(b)
The administrator shall be a person who is not a commissioner and who shall exercise the jurisdiction, supervision, powers, and duties not specifically assigned to the commission, including the execution of all laws relating to public utilities and carriers and all regulations and orders of the commission governing the conduct and charges of public utilities and who shall perform other duties and have powers as are hereinafter set forth. The administrator shall be a person who is appointed by the governor for an initial term of six (6) years. The administrator shall be appointed with the advice and consent of the senate. The director of administration, with the approval of the governor, shall allocate the administrator to one of the grades established by the pay plan for unclassified employees. The public utilities administrator also shall have powers and duties as provided in § 46-15.3-20.
History of Section.
P.L. 1969, ch. 240, § 1; P.L. 1973, ch. 199, § 1; P.L. 1980, ch. 335, § 6; P.L. 1995, ch. 188, § 3; P.L. 1996, ch. 316, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-4. - Composition of commission — Terms — Vacancies.

§ 39-1-4. Composition of commission — Terms — Vacancies.
(a)
The public utilities commission shall consist of three (3) electors selected with regard to their qualifications and experience in law and government, energy matters, economics and finance, engineering and accounting, and appointed by the governor with the advice and consent of the senate. The term of each commissioner shall be six (6) years. The director of administration, with the approval of the governor, shall allocate the position of each commissioner to one of the grades established by the pay plan for unclassified employees.
(b)
During the month prior to the expiration of the term of a commissioner, the governor, with the advice and consent of the senate shall appoint a commissioner to succeed the commissioner whose term will then next expire, to serve for a term of six (6) years commencing on the first day of March then next following, and until his or her successor is appointed and qualified. A commissioner shall be eligible to succeed him or herself. Upon the expiration of the term of the chairperson, the governor may designate any commissioner as chairperson.
(c)
A vacancy in the office of a commissioner, other than by expiration, shall be filled in like manner as an original appointment, but only for the unexpired portion of the term. If a vacancy occurs when the senate is not in session, the governor shall appoint a person to fill the vacancy, but only until the senate shall next convene and give its advice and consent to a new appointment.
History of Section.
P.L. 1969, ch. 240, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 144, § 1; P.L. 2010, ch. 23, art. 7, § 12.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-5. - Removal of commissioner from office.

§ 39-1-5. Removal of commissioner from office.
Commissioners may at any time be removed from office by the governor for inefficiency, neglect of duty, or malfeasance in office, but no commissioner shall be removed from office without an opportunity to be heard, publicly before the governor and after being given notice in writing of the charges against him or her. A copy of the charges and a transcript of the record of the hearing shall be filed with the secretary of state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1969, ch. 240, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 316, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-6. - Holding over in office.

§ 39-1-6. Holding over in office.
When the term of office of a commissioner shall expire, and he or she has participated in hearing all or a substantial part of the evidence in a proceeding pending before the commission, he or she shall remain a commissioner for the sole purpose of completing the hearing and deciding the pending matter and signing the findings, orders, and judgments therein. For such services, the commissioner shall be paid reasonable compensation and necessary expenses as fixed by the commission as composed following the expiration of his or her term of office. For this purpose, a proceeding shall be deemed completed when the commission enters its final order therein regardless of whether the order is or may be appealed to the supreme court and the case remanded to the commission for further proceedings.
History of Section.
P.L. 1969, ch. 240, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 316, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-7. - Powers of commission — Seal.

§ 39-1-7. Powers of commission — Seal.
(a)
The commission shall have the powers of a court of record in the determination and adjudication of all matters over which it is given jurisdiction. It may make orders and render judgments and enforce the same by any suitable process issuable by the superior court. The commission shall have an official seal, which shall have engraved thereon the words: “State of Rhode Island. Public Utilities Commission Seal.”
(b)
The commission shall have the power to do a complete audit of the books of all public utilities doing business in this state. The audit shall consider the cost of energy acquisition and all other aspects that the commission deems necessary.
History of Section.
P.L. 1912, ch. 795, § 7; G.L. 1923, ch. 253, § 7; G.L. 1938, ch. 122, § 5; G.L. 1956, § 39-1-4; G.L. 1956, § 39-1-7; P.L. 1969, ch. 240, § 1; P.L. 1979, ch. 102, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 316, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-8. - Quorum — Meetings.

§ 39-1-8. Quorum — Meetings.
Two (2) commissioners shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of any business, except as provided in § 39-1-11. Meetings of the commission may be held at any time or place upon the call of any member, after a reasonable notice by mail or telephone to the other members, and shall be held at such times and places as in the judgment of the commission will best serve the convenience of all parties in interest.
History of Section.
P.L. 1969, ch. 240, § 1; P.L. 1979, ch. 95, § 2; P.L. 2002, ch. 144, § 1; P.L. 2010, ch. 23, art. 7, § 12.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-9. - Clerk — Oath of office.

§ 39-1-9. Clerk — Oath of office.
The commission shall appoint an employee of the division as its clerk, who shall serve during its pleasure. The commissioners and clerk shall be sworn to the faithful discharge of the duties of their offices and, before entering upon their offices, shall file a certificate of their oaths for record in the office of the secretary of state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1969, ch. 240, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-10. - Powers and duties of clerk.

§ 39-1-10. Powers and duties of clerk.
The clerk shall have the custody of the seal of the commission; have general charge of the office; keep a full record of its proceedings; file and preserve at its office all documents and papers entrusted to his or her care; prepare such papers and notices as may be required of him or her by the commission; and perform such other duties as it may prescribe. The clerk shall have power to issue subpoenas for witnesses and to administer oaths in all cases before the commission or pertaining to the duties of the office.
History of Section.
P.L. 1969, ch. 240, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-11. - Proceedings before commission.

§ 39-1-11. Proceedings before commission.
The commission shall adopt reasonable rules and regulations governing the procedure to be followed in any matter that may come before it for a hearing, and in the hearing the commission shall not be bound by technical rules of evidence. The commission shall sit as an impartial, independent body, and is charged with the duty of rendering independent decisions affecting the public interest and private rights based upon the law and upon the evidence presented before it by the division and by the parties in interest. The presence of one commissioner shall constitute a quorum at all hearings, provided that the concurrence of a majority of the commission shall be required for the rendering of a decision.
History of Section.
P.L. 1969, ch. 240, § 1; P.L. 1979, ch. 95, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-12. - Prehearing procedure — Formulating issues — Copies of exhibits.

§ 39-1-12. Prehearing procedure — Formulating issues — Copies of exhibits.
Prior to the commencement of any formal hearing, the commission may, in its discretion, direct the parties or their attorneys to appear before it for a conference. At or before the conference, the commission may order any party to file a number of copies, as it may specify, of all exhibits it intends to use in the hearing, and the names and addresses of witnesses it intends to produce in its direct case, together with a short statement of the purposes of each exhibit and of the testimony of each witness. After entry of an order, a party shall not be permitted, except in the discretion of the commission, to introduce into evidence, in its direct case, exhibits that are not filed in accordance with the order. At the conference, the commission may designate a date before which it requires any party in interest to specify what items shown by the filed exhibits are conceded, and further proof of conceded items shall not be required. The commission may also require the parties to simplify the issues; to consider admissions of fact and of documents that will avoid unnecessary proof; and to limit the number of expert witnesses. The commission shall enter an order reciting the concessions and agreements made by the parties, and unless modified at the hearing to prevent manifest injustice, the hearing shall be controlled by the order.
History of Section.
P.L. 1969, ch. 240, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 316, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-13. - Subpoena powers of commissioners.

§ 39-1-13. Subpoena powers of commissioners.
The commissioners are hereby severally authorized and empowered to administer oaths; and the commission, in all cases of every nature pending before it, is hereby authorized and empowered to summon and examine witnesses and to compel the production and examination of papers, books, accounts, documents, records, certificates, and other legal evidence that may be necessary or proper for the determination and decision of any question before or the discharge of any duty required by law of the commission. All subpoenas and subpoenas duces tecum shall be signed by the chairperson or by the clerk, and shall be served as subpoenas are served in civil cases in the superior court; and witnesses so subpoenaed shall be entitled to the same fees for attendance and travel as are provided for witnesses in civil cases in the superior court. If any person fails to obey the command of the subpoena, without reasonable cause, or if a person in attendance before the commission shall, without reasonable cause, refuse to be sworn, or to be examined, or to answer a legal and pertinent question, any commissioner may apply to any justice of the superior court, upon proof by affidavit of the fact, for a rule or order returnable in not less than two (2) nor more than five (5) days, directing the person to show cause why he or she should not be adjudged in contempt. Upon the return of the order, the justice before whom the matter is brought for a hearing shall examine under oath the person, and the person shall be given an opportunity to be heard, and if the justice shall determine that the person has refused without reasonable cause or legal excuse to be examined, or to answer a legal and pertinent question, or to produce books, accounts, papers, records, and documents material to the issue that he or she was ordered to bring or produce, he or she may forthwith commit the person to the adult correctional institutions, there to remain until he or she submits to do the act that he or she was so required to do, or is discharged according to law.
History of Section.
P.L. 1969, ch. 240, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-14. - [Repealed.]

§ 39-1-14. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
G.L. 1956, § 39-1-14; P.L. 1969, ch. 240, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 1979, ch. 95, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-15. - Investigators and examiners.

§ 39-1-15. Investigators and examiners.
For effective administration, supervision, and regulation of public utilities, communications carriers, and common or contract carriers, the administrator, at his or her discretion, may designate examiners, investigators, hearing officers, or one or more agents of the division to make investigations and conduct hearings. In conducting investigations and hearings, the administrator and every person designated therefor by him or her shall be vested with all the powers conferred on the chairperson of the commission by § 39-1-13. Upon completion of his or her investigation and hearing, the person hearing or investigating shall file his or her recommended decision and findings in writing with the administrator; and the decision and findings, when approved by the administrator, shall have the same force and effect as a decision and findings by the administrator. The administrator may, however, at his or her discretion, upon considering the evidence in the matter at issue and the written recommended decision as filed by the hearing officer, agent, examiner, or investigator, decide the matter in hearing or under investigation him or herself, and in such case, the decision of the administrator with his or her findings shall become effective when signed and filed by him or her.
History of Section.
P.L. 1912, ch. 795, § 13; G.L. 1923, ch. 253, § 13; G.L. 1938, ch. 122, § 10; G.L. 1956, § 39-1-12; R.P.L. 1957, ch. 90, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 39-1-15; P.L. 1969, ch. 240, § 1; P.L. 1973, ch. 199, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-15.1. - Enforcement powers of inspectors.

§ 39-1-15.1. Enforcement powers of inspectors.
Examiners, field investigators, hearing officers, regulatory inspectors, and other employees of the division designated by the administrator with respect to the enforcement of the provisions of chapters 12 through 14.1 inclusive of this title, shall have and exercise, throughout this state, all powers of police officers including the power to arrest, without warrant, any person who violates any provision of the chapters, and the agents may serve all process lawfully issued by the administrator. Whenever a complaint is made of any violation of the provisions of chapters 12 through 14.1 inclusive of this title, by any examiner, field investigator, hearing officer, regulatory inspector, or any other employee of the division, he or she shall not be required to furnish surety for costs or be liable for costs upon any complaint.
History of Section.
P.L. 2012, ch. 82, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 178, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-15.2. - Enforcement by police departments.

§ 39-1-15.2. Enforcement by police departments.
The administrator is hereby authorized to avail himself or herself of state, city, and town police departments as are, or may hereafter be, existing by law, to enforce the provisions of chapters 12 through 14.1 inclusive of this title and the rules, regulations, and orders of the administrator made under the chapters; and the police departments are hereby given the necessary authority and power, in addition to those they now possess, to carry into effect the directions of this section.
History of Section.
P.L. 2012, ch. 82, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 178, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-16. - Depositions.

§ 39-1-16. Depositions.
In any investigation or hearing conducted by virtue of this title, the person designated to conduct the hearing may cause the deposition of witnesses, wherever residing, to be taken in the manner and used for the purposes prescribed by law for taking depositions in civil actions in the superior court.
History of Section.
P.L. 1969, ch. 240, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-17. - Consumers’ council participation.

§ 39-1-17. Consumers’ council participation.
In any inquiry into, or examination of, any matter wherein tariffs, rates, or charges for, or the cost of, or the quality, standard, or extent of, any service or commodities are requested by the division, and in every formal hearing conducted by the division, the consumers’ council shall be deemed to be an interested party for all purposes, and as such, shall receive all notices and may file complaints, institute proceedings, participate as a party in administrative hearings, and institute or participate in any appeal to the supreme court as an aggrieved party.
History of Section.
P.L. 1969, ch. 240, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-18. - Hearings and records — Certified copies.

§ 39-1-18. Hearings and records — Certified copies.
(a)
All hearings and orders of the commission and of the division, and the records thereof, shall be public and any person shall be permitted to record all or any portion of a hearing by way of camera, video, or tape recorder of any kind, unless a party to the hearing requests, and the chairperson or administrator grants the request, that the recording be prohibited for the protection of attorney-client privilege, confidentiality, or other interest of the parties. All reports, records, files, books, and accounts in the possession of the commission or the division shall be open to inspection by the public at all reasonable times. The division may charge and collect reasonable fees for copies of official documents, orders, papers, and records, and for authenticating or certifying the same; provided that no fee shall be charged for single copies of official documents, orders, papers, and records, furnished to public officers of the state for use in their official capacity, or for the annual reports in the ordinary course of distribution.
(b)
All filings made to the division or commission shall also be provided digitally in a manner established by the division. The commission and division may adopt rules exempting filings from this requirement.
(c)
In order to support the ability of the public and interested parties to stay informed of the activities of the commission and the division, and to promote awareness of utility restructuring, the division shall maintain a site on the internet through which the public may access:
(1)
Notices of and agendas of hearings;
(2)
All filings that are available in digital format and that are not subject to protective orders;
(3)
All orders, rules, and regulations of the commission or administrator;
(4)
Announcements of, agendas for, and minutes of open meetings;
(5)
A calendar of all forthcoming open meetings and hearings;
(6)
Current tariffs of all public utilities subject to assessment pursuant to § 39-1-23; provided, however, that the division may require any public utility with extensive tariffs to maintain a website and provide access to those tariffs via a link from the division’s website;
(7)
A listing of all public utilities and nonregulated power producers, together with consumer contact information for each;
(8)
Consumer information on billing dispute resolution, retail access, conservation, and consumer-assistance programs;
(9)
Demand-side management programs available to residential, commercial, and industrial customers; and
(10)
Other information as the division deems relevant and useful to the public.
History of Section.
P.L. 1912, ch. 795, § 9; G.L. 1923, ch. 253, § 9; P.L. 1929, ch. 1394, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 122, § 7; G.L. 1956, § 39-1-7; G.L. 1956, § 39-1-18; P.L. 1969, ch. 240, § 1; P.L. 1973, ch. 199, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 316, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 144, § 1; P.L. 2003, ch. 409, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 216, § 9.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-19. - Personnel — Legal representation.

§ 39-1-19. Personnel — Legal representation.
(a)
To carry out the purposes of this title, the commission and the division, within the appropriation therefor, are authorized to employ such clerks, stenographers, engineers, accountants, and agents as may be required, who shall be in the classified service, and may also retain and employ experts, consultants, and assistants on a contract or other basis for rendering legal, financial, professional, technical, or other assistance or advice.
(b)
When requested by the administrator, the attorney general, or an assistant designated by him or her, shall appear and represent the division in any hearing, investigation, action, or proceeding under this title, or in reference to any act or proceeding of the division, and intervene in any action or proceeding in which is involved any question arising under this title. In all cases in which the attorney general or an assistant intervenes on behalf of the state as a customer of a public utility, or on behalf of the citizens of the state, as customers of a public utility, the division may employ legal counsel to represent it, as provided for in § 39-1-20.
History of Section.
P.L. 1912, ch. 795, §§ 10, 12; G.L. 1923, ch. 253, §§ 10, 12; G.L. 1938, ch. 122, §§ 8, 9; G.L. 1956, §§ 39-1-10, 39-1-11; G.L. 1956, § 39-1-19; P.L. 1969, ch. 240, § 1; P.L. 1975, ch. 277, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-20. - Assistance for investigations and hearings.

§ 39-1-20. Assistance for investigations and hearings.
Whenever the commission or the division shall conduct an investigation or hearing upon a proposal by a public utility to increase its rates, tolls, or charges, or to issue stocks, bonds, notes, or other evidences of indebtedness, or to merge or consolidate with another company, it may employ legal counsel, official stenographers, and expert witnesses, and may designate disinterested persons free from bias, prejudice, and pecuniary interest in the matter concerned, to examine into and testify regarding the matters involved and all collateral issues at all hearings and in any appeal procedures until final determination in law has been had.
History of Section.
P.L. 1969, ch. 240, § 1; P.L. 1973, ch. 199, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-21. - Access to premises of utility.

§ 39-1-21. Access to premises of utility.
The commissioners, the attorney general, and the agents of the division, as provided in §§ 39-1-15 and 39-1-20, while engaged in the performance of their duties, may, at all reasonable times, enter any premises, buildings, cars, plant, or equipment, or other places belonging to, or controlled by, any public utility, communications carrier, or contract carrier, and inspect the same or any part thereof, and any person obstructing, hindering, or in any way causing to be obstructed or hindered, any commissioner or the attorney general or any agent of the division, in the performance of his or her duties, or who shall refuse to permit any commissioner, the attorney general, or any agent of the division entrance into any premises, building, cars, plant, or equipment, or other places belonging to or controlled by any public utility, communications carrier, or contract carrier, in the performance of his or her duties as such, shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and fined not more than five hundred dollars ($500).
History of Section.
P.L. 1912, ch. 795, § 14; G.L. 1923, ch. 253, § 14; G.L. 1938, ch. 122, § 11; G.L. 1956, § 39-1-13; G.L. 1956, § 39-1-21; P.L. 1969, ch. 240, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-22. - False returns.

§ 39-1-22. False returns.
A company subject to the supervision of the commission or division that furnishes it with a sworn or affirmed report, return, or statement, that the company knows or should know contains false figures or information regarding any material matter lawfully required of it, and any company that fails within a reasonable time to obey a final order of the commission or division, shall be fined not more than twenty thousand dollars ($20,000).
History of Section.
P.L. 1969, ch. 240, § 1; P.L. 1973, ch. 199, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-23.1. - Motor carrier enforcement program created — Recovery of expenses through a percentage of fines collected from motor carriers.

§ 39-1-23.1. Motor carrier enforcement program created — Recovery of expenses through a percentage of fines collected from motor carriers.
(a)
The administrator has been charged under this title with the responsibility of promoting adequate, economical, and efficient service by motor carriers and reasonable charges therefore without unjust discriminations, undue preferences, or advantages, or unfair or destructive competitive practices. This legislative charge further requires that the administrator improve the relations between, and coordinate transportation by, and the regulations between all modes of transportation provided by the various classes of motor carriers; develop and preserve a highway transportation system properly adapted to the needs of the commerce of the state; and promote safety upon its publicly used highways in the interest of its citizens.
(b)
It is hereby declared that in order to enforce the statutes, rules, and regulations under which the administrator carries out his or her efforts to fulfill the mandates provided in subsection (a), appropriations shall be provided, pursuant to the assessment provision contained in § 39-1-23, for the purposes of providing the administrator with the financial means to maintain an enforcement presence in the transportation industry. The appropriations shall be used by the administrator to create and maintain a field enforcement staff of at least two (2) inspector-auditors whose sole responsibilities shall be to promote and compel compliance with all applicable motor carrier related statutes, rules, and regulations. In addition to compensation for inspector-auditors, the motor carrier enforcement appropriations may be used to purchase any materials or equipment necessary for this field enforcement staff and any training or educational programs germane to its regulatory functions.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 34, § 3; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 40, § 116; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 103; P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 29, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-24. - Certification, collection, and deposit of assessments.

§ 39-1-24. Certification, collection, and deposit of assessments.
On or before the first day of August in each year, the administrator shall certify to the state controller the amount of the assessment made pursuant to § 39-1-23 and the name and address of each company against whom the assessment is made. Each company shall pay the administrator the amount assessed against it within thirty (30) days from the receipt of the assessment with interest at the rate of six percent (6%) per annum if unpaid at the due date. The administrator shall deposit all payments with the general treasurer. The amount so deposited shall be credited to the general fund of the state and accounted for as expenses recovered from public utility companies and common carriers.
History of Section.
G.L. 1938, ch. 122, § 63; P.L. 1955, ch. 3436, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 39-1-15; G.L. 1956, § 39-1-24; P.L. 1969, ch. 240, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-25. - Objection to assessments.

§ 39-1-25. Objection to assessments.
Each company shall pay to the administrator the amount assessed against it or shall file with the commission its objections in writing setting out the grounds upon which it claims that the assessment is excessive, erroneous, unlawful, or invalid. The commission shall, within thirty (30) days from the receipt of the objection, hold a hearing and issue an order in accordance with its findings.
History of Section.
G.L. 1938, ch. 122, § 63; P.L. 1955, ch. 3436, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 39-1-16; G.L. 1956, § 39-1-25; P.L. 1969, ch. 240, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-27.2. - [Repealed.]

§ 39-1-27.2. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1996, ch. 315, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2006, ch. 216, § 10, effective July 3, 2006.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-27.5. - [Repealed.]

§ 39-1-27.5. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1996, ch. 316, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2006, ch. 216, § 10, effective July 3, 2006.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-27.8. - Supply procurement portfolio.

§ 39-1-27.8. Supply procurement portfolio.
Each electric distribution company shall submit a proposed supply procurement plan or plans to the commission not later than March 1, 2009, and each March 1 thereafter through March 1, 2018. The supply procurement plan or plans shall be consistent with the purposes of least-cost procurement and shall, as appropriate, take into account plans and orders with regard to system reliability and energy efficiency and conservation procurement. The supply procurement plan or plans will include the acquisition procedure, the pricing options being sought, and a proposed term of service for which standard-offer service will be acquired. The term of service may be of various, staggered term lengths and acquisitions may occur from time to time and for more than one supplier for segments of standard-offer load over different terms, if appropriate. There also may be separate procurement plans for residential and nonresidential classes or separate plans among nonresidential classes. All the components of the procurement plans shall be subject to commission review and approval. Once a procurement plan is approved by the commission, the electric distribution company shall be authorized to acquire standard-offer service supply consistent with the approved procurement plan and recover its costs incurred from providing standard-offer service pursuant to the approved procurement plan. The commission may periodically review the procurement plan to determine whether it should be prospectively modified due to changed market conditions. The commission shall have the authority and discretion to establish eligibility criteria by rate class, and approve special tariff conditions and rates proposed by the electric distribution company that the commission finds are in the public interest, including, without limitation: (1) Short- and long-term optional service at different rates; (2) Term commitments or notice provisions before individual customers leave standard-offer service; (3) Standard-offer service rates for residential or any other special class of customers that are different than the rates for other standard-offer customers; (4) Time of use commodity pricing for specified classes of customers, except residential customers; provided, however, that the commission may establish pilot programs for time of use commodity pricing for residential customers; and/or (5) Standard-offer service rates that are designed to encourage any class of customers to purchase supply directly from the market.
History of Section.
P.L. 2006, ch. 236, § 6; P.L. 2006, ch. 237, § 6.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-27.9. - Office of energy resources participation.

§ 39-1-27.9. Office of energy resources participation.
In any commission inquiry into, or examination of, matters that relate to or could potentially impact any programs, functions, or duties of the office of energy resources and/or the energy efficiency and resources management council, including, but not limited to, those programs, functions and duties pursuant to this chapter and chapters 140, 140.1, 140.2, and 141 of title 42, the office of energy resources and the energy resources council shall be deemed, upon the formal request of the office or the council as appropriate, to be an interested party for all purposes, and as such, shall receive all notices and may file complaints, institute proceedings, and participate as a party in administrative hearings.
History of Section.
P.L. 2006, ch. 236, § 6; P.L. 2006, ch. 237, § 6; P.L. 2020, ch. 79, art. 1, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-27.10. - Electric and gas distribution companies required to file affordable energy plans.

§ 39-1-27.10. Electric and gas distribution companies required to file affordable energy plans.
(a)
On or before January 2, 2007, each gas and electric distribution company shall submit to the commission a plan for affordable energy for low-income households, including very low-income households as defined in § 42-141-2 [repealed]. The plan shall provide for the implementation of the affordable energy fund and shall include provisions for discounted distribution rates and customer charges; payments on arrearages and unpaid balances by low-income households; and energy efficiency and weatherization, to the extent that funding is allocated by the commissioner pursuant to § 42-141-5(d) [repealed]. Any amendments or revisions to the plan after December 1, 2007, shall provide for referral of eligible households, as appropriate, to community action agencies or other entities designated by the office of energy resources for weatherization assistance.
(b)
On or before April 30, 2007, the commission shall review the plan and issue an order with regard to the plan not later than May 31, 2007. The order shall be effective not later than November 1, 2007. The commission shall cause a review, and as appropriate an amendment, of the plan at least every three (3) years between July 1, 2007, and July 1, 2016.
(c)
On or before November 1, 2007, each gas and electric distribution company shall implement an affordable energy plan in accordance with the order of the commission.
History of Section.
P.L. 2006, ch. 236, § 6; P.L. 2006, ch. 237, § 6; P.L. 2007, ch. 51, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 66, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-27.11. - Affordable gas for public housing authorities.

§ 39-1-27.11. Affordable gas for public housing authorities.
The commission shall authorize public housing authorities, created pursuant to chapter 25 or 26 of title 45, to participate in “business choice programs” provided the commission determines that the accounts are billed to and paid by a single housing provider; that the accounts are located on contiguous sites; that other applicable standards for program participation are met; and that such participation is reasonable and prudent.
History of Section.
P.L. 2007, ch. 441, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-27.13. - Alternative suppliers and purchase of receivables program.

§ 39-1-27.13. Alternative suppliers and purchase of receivables program.
(a)
The general assembly recognizes the importance of competitive choice in electric generation service.
(b)
The commission may implement a purchase of receivables program where the electric distribution company purchases the receivables of a nonregulated power producer at a discount rate that is then offset from the monthly payments the electric distribution company makes to the nonregulated power producer if the commission finds that the benefits of the program to ratepayers would exceed the costs to ratepayers.
History of Section.
P.L. 2018, ch. 102, § 1; P.L. 2018, ch. 108, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-28. - Acceptance of grants.

§ 39-1-28. Acceptance of grants.
The commission and the division are authorized and empowered to apply for and receive and accept, in the name of the state, grants, of property, money, and services and other assistance offered or made available to them by any person, any political subdivision or entity, or any other agency, governmental or private, including the United States or any of its agencies and instrumentalities, which they may use for any purpose in furtherance of their powers and duties; provided, however, that acceptance of any grant shall not make the state in any manner legally or equitably liable to the donor relative to the use of the grant. The grants received shall not be covered into the general fund of the state, but shall be kept by the general treasurer in a separate fund for the commission and division and shall be paid out by him or her only upon receipt of properly authenticated vouchers signed by the chairperson of the commission or the administrator as appropriate, without the necessity of appropriation or reappropriation by the general assembly.
History of Section.
P.L. 1969, ch. 240, § 1; P.L. 1973, ch. 199, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 316, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-29. - Proceedings before federal agencies — Cooperation with other agencies.

§ 39-1-29. Proceedings before federal agencies — Cooperation with other agencies.
The administrator shall represent the state in proceedings before agencies of the federal government on all matters affecting public utility services rendered, or to be rendered, in this state, and shall participate with other governmental and private agencies in studying integration or coordination of power systems to achieve low generating and transmission costs and possible regionalization of regulation.
History of Section.
P.L. 1969, ch. 240, § 1; P.L. 1973, ch. 199, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-30. - Zoning review — Approval of ordinances and regulations.

§ 39-1-30. Zoning review — Approval of ordinances and regulations.
Every ruling, decision, and order of a zoning board of review and of a building, gas, water, health, or electrical inspector of any municipality affecting the placing, erection, and maintenance of any plant, building, wires, conductors, fixtures, structures, equipment, or apparatus of any company under the supervision of the commission, shall be subject to the right of appeal by any aggrieved party to the commission within ten (10) days from the giving of notice of the ruling, decision, or order. The commission, after hearing, upon notice to all parties in interest, shall, as speedily as possible, determine the matter in question, weighing the consideration of public convenience, necessity, and safety against the consideration of public zoning, and shall have jurisdiction to affirm or revoke or modify the ruling, decision, or order to make any order in substitution thereof. Every ordinance enacted, or regulation promulgated, by any town or city affecting the mode or manner of operation or the placing or maintenance of the plant and equipment of any company under the supervision of the commission, shall be subject to the right of appeal by any aggrieved party to the commission within ten (10) days from the enactment or promulgation. The commission, after a hearing, upon notice to all parties in interest, shall determine the matter giving consideration to its effect upon the public health, safety, welfare, comfort, and convenience.
History of Section.
P.L. 1969, ch. 240, § 1; P.L. 1971, ch. 265, § 2; P.L. 1972, ch. 205, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-30.1. - Validation of location of utilities.

§ 39-1-30.1. Validation of location of utilities.
The locations for all lines for the transmission or distribution of electric current or for the providing of audio or visual telephonic or telegraphic communication service heretofore acquired or constructed by public utilities as defined under § 39-1-2, upon, along, under, or over the public ways and places of this state, and the locations for poles, piers, abutments, conduits, manholes, vaults, and other fixtures, including those jointly owned, necessary to sustain, protect, or operate the wires and cables of the lines, and actually in place on May 19, 1982, are hereby made lawful notwithstanding any deficiency in the proceedings relative to their location and erection.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 427, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 39 - Public Utilities and Carriers › Chapter 39-1 - Public Utilities Commission › Section 39-1-30.2. - Possession of land adverse to a utility.

§ 39-1-30.2. Possession of land adverse to a utility.
No interest in real property of an electric distribution company, electric transmission company, gas, telephone, or water utility may be defeated or otherwise adversely affected by the use, possession, or occupancy of the real property by any person.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 123, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 316, § 1.