reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1 - Cruelty to Animals › Section 4-1-23. - Destruction of infirm animals by society.

§ 4-1-23. Destruction of infirm animals by society.
If, upon examination by a licensed graduate veterinarian of any animal taken possession of under § 4-1-22, the veterinarian certifies, in writing, to the society that the animal is so aged, maimed, disabled, lame, sick, diseased, or injured as to be unfit for any useful purpose, any officer or agent of the society may lawfully and humanely destroy that animal or cause it to be humanely destroyed, and the society, its officers and agents, are exonerated from all liability to the owner of that animal on account of its destruction.
History of Section.
G.L. 1956, ch. 640, § 4; P.L. 1945, ch. 1651, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 4-1-23.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1 - Cruelty to Animals › Section 4-1-24. - Jurisdiction of offenses — Appeals.

§ 4-1-24. Jurisdiction of offenses — Appeals.
The district court has concurrent jurisdiction with the superior court, over all offenses under this chapter and to the full extent of the penalties specified. Parties defendant, however, have the same right to appeal from the sentence of a district court as is now provided by law in other criminal cases.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 114, § 9; C.P.A. 1905, § 1216; G.L. 1909, ch. 138, § 9; G.L. 1923, ch. 141, § 9; G.L. 1938, ch. 640, § 9; G.L. 1956, § 4-1-24; P.L. 1969, ch. 239, § 53.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1 - Cruelty to Animals › Section 4-1-25. - Appropriations for prevention of cruelty — Payments to society.

§ 4-1-25. Appropriations for prevention of cruelty — Payments to society.
The general assembly shall annually appropriate any sum it deems necessary, out of any money in the treasury not otherwise appropriated, to be expended under the direction of the director of environmental management, for the purpose of preventing cruelty to animals, and the director may pay that sum to the Rhode Island society for the prevention of cruelty to animals for that purpose, and the state controller is authorized to draw his or her orders upon the general treasurer for the payment of any sum appropriated, or so much of the sum as may be required, upon receipt by him or her of proper vouchers approved by the director.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 114, § 18; G.L. 1909, ch. 138, § 19; G.L. 1923, ch. 141, § 19; P.L. 1923, ch. 431, § 1; P.L. 1929, ch. 1374, § 5; G.L. 1938, ch. 640, § 19; impl. am. P.L. 1939, ch. 660, § 65; G.L. 1956, § 4-1-25.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1 - Cruelty to Animals › Section 4-1-26. - Abandonment of animals.

§ 4-1-26. Abandonment of animals.
(a)
If any person having possession and/or control of an animal abandons that animal on a street, road, highway or in a public place or on private property or from a motor vehicle, or in a dwelling or any other building or structure without providing for the care of that animal, he or she shall be punished in the manner provided in § 4-1-2 for each such offense. If this abandonment results in the death of the animal, the person shall be punished in the manner provided in § 4-1-5. Abandonment means the relinquishment of all right, title, claim, or possession of the animal with the intention of not reclaiming it or resuming its ownership or possession.
(b)
Any pound or animal shelter as defined under § 4-19-2, shall deem abandoned any animal impounded and not redeemed by its owner within ten (10) days of impoundment if such animal is wearing identification. Any animal impounded and not wearing identification shall be deemed abandoned if not redeemed by its owner within five (5) days of impoundment. Any animal deemed abandoned shall become the property of the impounding agency and may be adopted.
(c)
Any pound or animal shelter shall make a prompt and reasonable attempt to locate and notify the owner of the impounded animal, including scanning the animal for a microchip.
History of Section.
P.L. 1966, ch. 176, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 329, § 1; P.L. 2017, ch. 337, § 1; P.L. 2017, ch. 358, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1 - Cruelty to Animals › Section 4-1-26.1. - Reports of abandoned, neglected or abused animals.

§ 4-1-26.1. Reports of abandoned, neglected or abused animals.
(a)
Any Rhode Island licensed veterinarian, veterinarian technician, animal shelter, animal kennel, or other person entrusted with the care or custody of an animal shall report to any police department (local or state), animal control officials, or officers of private organizations devoted to the humane treatment of animals, the condition of any animal that the parties entrusted with care or custody of an animal knows, or reasonably believes, to be abandoned, as defined in § 4-1-26, neglected, or abused, and shall be immune from suit pursuant to the provisions of § 4-1-37. Any party who fails to report pursuant to this section shall be fined not exceeding five hundred dollars ($500).
(b)
Nothing in this section shall be construed to impose a duty to further investigate observed or reasonably suspected animal abandonment, cruel neglect, or abuse.
History of Section.
P.L. 2018, ch. 172, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1 - Cruelty to Animals › Section 4-1-27. - Auction of lost or abandoned animals and poultry.

§ 4-1-27. Auction of lost or abandoned animals and poultry.
(a)
The general agent of the Rhode Island society for the prevention of cruelty to animals, within his or her discretion, may sell at public auction any lost or abandoned animals and poultry. Before proceeding to sale, the general agent shall give notice to the owners of the lost or abandoned animals by advertising once a week for three (3) successive weeks prior to the sale in some daily newspaper printed in English and published in this state.
(b)
The agent is not liable in any legal action brought against him or her based on the sale. The proceeds of the sales shall be turned over to the Rhode Island society for the prevention of cruelty to animals to be used to defray the cost of shelter and care of animals which are the subject of the sale and to cover any costs incident to the sale.
(c)
Any remaining proceeds from the sale shall be held for a period of two (2) years by the Rhode Island society for the prevention of cruelty to animals for the account of the rightful owner, who, upon making a claim and showing satisfactory evidence of ownership, shall be entitled to those proceeds. If unclaimed within that two (2) year period, the proceeds shall then become the property of the Rhode Island society for the prevention of cruelty to animals to be used for any and all purposes of the society.
History of Section.
P.L. 1968, ch. 72, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1 - Cruelty to Animals › Section 4-1-28. - Greasy pig contests prohibited.

§ 4-1-28. Greasy pig contests prohibited.
It is unlawful for any person, as defined in § 4-1-1, to conduct any greasy pig contest within the state. Any person violating this section is subject to the provisions of § 4-1-2.
History of Section.
P.L. 1973, ch. 114, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1 - Cruelty to Animals › Section 4-1-29. - Release of caged animals in park or zoo.

§ 4-1-29. Release of caged animals in park or zoo.
It is unlawful for any person to willfully release an animal from captivity in a park, circus, zoo or other such facility. Any person violating this section is be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor.
History of Section.
P.L. 1975, ch. 131, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1 - Cruelty to Animals › Section 4-1-30. - [Repealed.]

§ 4-1-30. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1980, ch. 185, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2019, ch. 115, § 1, effective July 8, 2019; P.L. 2019, ch. 147, § 1, effective July 8, 2019.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1 - Cruelty to Animals › Section 4-1-32. - Repealed.

§ 4-1-32. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1983, ch. 306, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 1984, ch. 351, § 1, effective May 11, 1984. For present provisions of law, see § 4-1-2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1 - Cruelty to Animals › Section 4-1-33. - Persons using animals for research — Registration.

§ 4-1-33. Persons using animals for research — Registration.
(a)
Any person, firm, partnership, or corporation actively engaged in animal research, who actually utilizes live animals for research purposes, shall register with the department of health by filing with the department of health on forms provided by it, the full name, address and type of research performed by the particular person, firm, partnership, or corporation involved in animal research. Any person who violates any of the provisions of this section shall be fined not more than five hundred dollars ($500).
(b)
Upon passage of this section the department of health shall publish a notice containing the provisions of this section.
History of Section.
P.L. 1989, ch. 479, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1 - Cruelty to Animals › Section 4-1-34. - Destruction of racing greyhounds.

§ 4-1-34. Destruction of racing greyhounds.
No person shall put to death, within the state, a racing greyhound or a retired racing greyhound except in a humane manner. For the purposes of this section, the phrase in a humane manner means by means of euthanasia by lethal injection, or by any other standard of humane killing that may be established by the American veterinary medicine association.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 465, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1 - Cruelty to Animals › Section 4-1-34.1. - Restriction on sale of greyhounds.

§ 4-1-34.1. Restriction on sale of greyhounds.
No person, firm, or other business entity shall sell or otherwise transfer any greyhound or retired racing greyhound to any person, firm, or other business entity for the purpose of medical research.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 465, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1 - Cruelty to Animals › Section 4-1-34.2. - Autopsies and medical treatment permitted.

§ 4-1-34.2. Autopsies and medical treatment permitted.
Nothing contained in this chapter prohibits the owner of a greyhound from having an autopsy performed on that greyhound, nor prohibits any medical treatment necessary to maintain the health and well being of a greyhound.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 465, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1 - Cruelty to Animals › Section 4-1-34.3. - Violations — Penalties.

§ 4-1-34.3. Violations — Penalties.
Any person found guilty of violating § 4-1-34 or 4-1-34.1 shall be fined not more than one thousand dollars ($1,000).
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 465, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1 - Cruelty to Animals › Section 4-1-35. - Community restitution.

§ 4-1-35. Community restitution.
The general assembly hereby declares that the words “community service” which appear throughout this chapter shall now be substituted with and referred to as “community restitution”.
History of Section.
P.L. 1998, ch. 454, § 7.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1 - Cruelty to Animals › Section 4-1-36. - Psychiatric counseling.

§ 4-1-36. Psychiatric counseling.
Any person found guilty of violating any of the provisions of this chapter may, in addition to any penalties imposed, be evaluated to determine the need for psychiatric or psychological counseling, and, if determined appropriate by the court, to receive psychiatric or psychological counseling at his or her own expense.
History of Section.
P.L. 2000, ch. 321, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1 - Cruelty to Animals › Section 4-1-37. - Immunity from suit.

§ 4-1-37. Immunity from suit.
Any person entrusted with the care and custody of an animal, including, but not limited to, any Rhode Island licensed veterinarian, veterinarian technician, animal shelter, or animal kennel, shall be held harmless from either criminal or civil liability arising out of any reports, either oral or written, made to local or state police, animal control officials, or officers of private organizations devoted to humane treatment of animals, concerning any animal that the veterinarian knows, or reasonably believed, to be abandoned, neglected, or abused, and shall be immune from suit by reason of making the report. Provided, however, that a veterinarian who participates or reports in bad faith or with malice shall not be protected under the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2000, ch. 322, § 1; P.L. 2018, ch. 172, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1 - Cruelty to Animals › Section 4-1-38. - Use of the terms owner or guardian.

§ 4-1-38. Use of the terms owner or guardian.
Wherever the word “owner” shall appear in this chapter it shall also mean and may be interchanged with the word “guardian” as defined in § 4-1-1.
History of Section.
P.L. 2001, ch. 72, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1 - Cruelty to Animals › Section 4-1-39. - Transport and shelter of horses.

§ 4-1-39. Transport and shelter of horses.
(a)
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a person may not transport or shelter, or cause or allow to be transported or sheltered any equine animal in or upon any trailer, conveyance or other vehicle whatsoever with two (2) or more levels stacked on top of one another.
(b)
Any person who violates the provisions of this section shall be subject to a fine of not less than five hundred dollars ($500) per animal for a first offense, and subject to a fine of at least one thousand dollars ($1,000) per animal for all second and subsequent offenses.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 257, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 414, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1 - Cruelty to Animals › Section 4-1-40. - Possession of animals.

§ 4-1-40. Possession of animals.
(a)
In addition to any other penalty imposed by law, a person convicted of, or who entered a plea of nolo contendere to, any misdemeanor violation under the provisions of this chapter shall not possess or reside with any animal for a period of up to five (5) years following entry of the conviction or upon acceptance of a plea of nolo contendere by the court. Any offense under this subsection is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars ($1,000), by imprisonment for a term not more than one year, or both, and forfeiture of the animal(s).
(b)
In addition to any other penalty imposed by law, a person convicted of, or who entered a plea of nolo contendere to, any felony violation under the provisions of this chapter shall not possess or reside with any animal for a period of up to fifteen (15) years following entry of the conviction or upon acceptance of a plea of nolo contendere by the court. Any offense under this subsection is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars ($1,000), by imprisonment for a term not more than one year, or both, and forfeiture of the animal(s).
History of Section.
P.L. 2011, ch. 194, § 1; P.L. 2011, ch. 207, § 1; P.L. 2018, ch. 200, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1 - Cruelty to Animals › Section 4-1-41. - Devocalization or declawing as requirement for property occupancy prohibited.

§ 4-1-41. Devocalization or declawing as requirement for property occupancy prohibited.
(a)
No person or corporation that occupies, owns, manages, or provides services in connection with any real property, including the individual’s or corporation’s agents or successors-in-interest, may do any of the following if the person or corporation allows an animal on the subject premises:
(1)
Advertise, through any means, the availability of real property for occupancy in a manner designed to discourage application for occupancy of that real property because the applicant’s animal has not been declawed or devocalized;
(2)
Refuse to allow the occupancy of any real property, refuse to negotiate the occupancy of any real estate property, or to otherwise make unavailable or deny to any other person the occupancy of any real property because of that person’s refusal to declaw or devocalize any animal; or
(3)
Require any tenant or occupant of real property to declaw or devocalize any animal allowed on the premises.
(b)
Any person found in violation of this section shall be fined not more than one thousand dollars ($1,000). In addition to any other penalty provided by law, a person fined under this section may be barred from owning or possessing any animals, or living on the same property with someone who owns or possesses animals, for a period of time deemed appropriate by the court, and be required to take humane education, pet ownership and dog training classes as ordered by the court.
(c)
Nothing contained within this section shall be construed as forbidding a person or corporation that occupies, owns, manages, or provides services in connection with any real property, including the individual’s or corporation’s agents or successors-in-interest, from prohibiting any animal on the premises.
History of Section.
P.L. 2013, ch. 318, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 431, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1 - Cruelty to Animals › Section 4-1-42. - Care of neglected animals by department — Forfeiture of owner’s rights — Expenses.

§ 4-1-42. Care of neglected animals by department — Forfeiture of owner’s rights — Expenses.
(a)
The director of environmental management, or any veterinarian employed by the department of environmental management (“department”), may lawfully take charge of any animal found abandoned or neglected or hazardously accumulated as defined in § 4-1-1, or that, in the opinion of the department, is aged, maimed, disabled, lame, sick, diseased, injured, unfit for the labor it is performing, or cruelly treated, and shall give notice to the owner, if known, or his or her agents, and may provide suitable care.
(b)
Every owner, guardian, or agent, upon conviction, entry of a guilty plea, or plea of nolo contendere, of abandonment, neglect, hazardous accumulation as defined in § 4-1-1, or otherwise cruel treatment of any animal taken charge of by the department under this section, forfeits the right to ownership or control of that animal to the department for disposition in any manner deemed suitable for that animal.
(c)
Whenever the department lawfully takes charge of any animal under this section, all reasonable expenses for the care and treatment of the animal(s), while in the custody of the department during this time, shall be paid for by the owner, guardian, or his or her agent, upon conviction, a plea of guilty or plea of nolo contendere. The department has the authority to commence a civil action for damages against the owner or his or her agent thirty (30) days after written demand for payment of the expense of the suitable care of that animal has been sent and no payment received.
History of Section.
P.L. 2014, ch. 261, § 2; P.L. 2014, ch. 321, § 2; P.L. 2017, ch. 439, § 1; P.L. 2017, ch. 444, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1 - Cruelty to Animals › Section 4-1-43. - Use of bullhooks or similar devices on elephants prohibited.

§ 4-1-43. Use of bullhooks or similar devices on elephants prohibited.
(a)
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, any person who houses, possesses, or is in direct contact with an elephant utilized in a traveling show shall not:
(1)
Use a bullhook, ankus, baseball bat, axe handle, pitchfork, or similar device designed to inflict pain for the purpose of training or controlling the behavior of an elephant; or
(2)
Permit an employee, agent, or contractor to use a bullhook, ankus, baseball bat, axe handle, pitchfork, or similar device designed to inflict pain for the purpose of training or controlling the behavior of an elephant.
(b)
For purposes of this section “traveling show” means a circus, public show, trade show, photographic opportunity, carnival, city or county fair, ride, parade, race, performance or similar undertaking that involves transporting elephants from location to location or otherwise moves elephants away from a place of permanent residency for performance purposes. The term “traveling show” does not include the transportation of an elephant between nonprofit United States Department of Agriculture licensed sanctuaries for the purpose of providing lifetime care.
(c)
Any person who violates the provisions of this section shall be fined not more than five thousand dollars ($5,000) per violation, or imprisoned for not more than one year, or by both such fine and imprisonment.
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 506, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1.1 - Unlawful Confinement of a Covered Animal › Section 4-1.1-2. - Purpose. [Effective until July 1, 2026.]

§ 4-1.1-2. Purpose. [Effective until July 1, 2026.]
The purpose of this chapter, subject to exceptions set forth in § 4-1.1-4, is to prohibit the confinement of calves raised for veal and sows during gestation.
History of Section.
P.L. 2012, ch. 275, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 285, § 1.
§ 4-1.1-2. Purpose. [Effective July 1, 2026.]
The purpose of this chapter, subject to exceptions set forth in § 4-1.1-4, is to prohibit the confinement of a covered animal in a manner that prevents the animal from turning around freely, lying down, standing up, or fully extending the animal’s limbs.
History of Section.
P.L. 2012, ch. 275, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 285, § 1; P.L. 2018, ch. 348, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1.1 - Unlawful Confinement of a Covered Animal › Section 4-1.1-3. - Unlawful confinement. [Effective until July 1, 2026.]

§ 4-1.1-3. Unlawful confinement. [Effective until July 1, 2026.]
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a person is guilty of unlawful confinement of a sow or calf if the person is a farm owner or operator who knowingly tethers or confines any sow or calf in a manner that prevents such animal from turning around freely, lying down, standing up, or fully extending the animal’s limbs.
History of Section.
P.L. 2012, ch. 275, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 285, § 1.
§ 4-1.1-3. Unlawful confinement. [Effective July 1, 2026.]
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a person is guilty of unlawful confinement of a covered animal if the person is a farm owner or operator who knowingly tethers or confines any covered animal in a manner that prevents the animal from turning around freely, lying down, standing up, or fully extending the animal’s limbs.
History of Section.
P.L. 2012, ch. 275, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 285, § 1; P.L. 2018, ch. 348, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1.1 - Unlawful Confinement of a Covered Animal › Section 4-1.1-4. - Exceptions. [Effective until July 1, 2026.]

§ 4-1.1-4. Exceptions. [Effective until July 1, 2026.]
This chapter shall not apply:
(1)
During medical research;
(2)
Temporary confinement prior to and during examination, testing, individual treatment or operation for veterinary purposes;
(3)
During transportation;
(4)
During rodeo exhibitions, state or county fair exhibitions, 4-H programs, and similar exhibitions or educational programs;
(5)
During temporary confinement for animal husbandry purposes for no more than six (6) hours in any twenty-four-hour (24) period unless ordered by a licensed veterinarian;
(6)
During the humane slaughter of a sow or pig in accordance with the provisions of chapter 4-17, and other applicable laws and regulations;
(7)
To a sow during the fourteen-day (14) period prior to the sows expected date of giving birth and extending for a duration of time until the piglets are weaned. This period may be modified upon the order of a licensed veterinarian;
(8)
To calves being trained to exhibit; and
(9)
To calves being trained to accept routine confinement in dairy and beef housing.
History of Section.
P.L. 2012, ch. 275, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 285, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 308, art. 2, § 2.
§ 4-1.1-4. Exceptions. [Effective July 1, 2026.]
This chapter shall not apply:
(1)
During medical research;
(2)
Temporary confinement prior to and during examination, testing, individual treatment or operation for veterinary purposes;
(3)
During transportation;
(4)
During rodeo exhibitions, state or county fair exhibitions, 4-H programs, and similar exhibitions or educational programs;
(5)
During temporary confinement for animal husbandry purposes for no more than six (6) hours in any twenty-four-hour (24) period, unless ordered by a licensed veterinarian;
(6)
During the humane slaughter of a covered animal in accordance with the provisions of chapter 17 of this title, and other applicable laws and regulations;
(7)
To a sow during the five-day (5) period prior to the sow’s expected date of giving birth and any day that the sow is nursing piglets;
(8)
To calves being trained to exhibit; and
(9)
To calves being trained to accept routine confinement in dairy and beef housing.
History of Section.
P.L. 2012, ch. 275, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 285, § 1; P.L. 2018, ch. 348, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 308, art. 2, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1.1 - Unlawful Confinement of a Covered Animal › Section 4-1.1-5. - Penalty. [Effective until July 1, 2026.]

§ 4-1.1-5. Penalty. [Effective until July 1, 2026.]
(a)
The provisions of this chapter are in addition to, and not in lieu of, any other laws protecting animal welfare. This chapter may not be construed to limit any other state laws or rules protecting the welfare of animals or to prevent a local governing body from adopting and enforcing its own animal welfare laws and regulations.
(b)
It is not an affirmative defense to alleged violations of this chapter that the calf or sow was kept as part of an agricultural operation and in accordance with customary animal husbandry or farming practices.
(c)
Any person who violates the provisions of this chapter or any rules or regulations promulgated hereunder shall be fined not less than fifty dollars ($50.00) nor exceeding five hundred dollars ($500), or both.
History of Section.
P.L. 2012, ch. 275, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 285, § 1.
§ 4-1.1-5. Penalty. [Effective July 1, 2026.]
(a)
The provisions of this chapter are in addition to, and not in lieu of, any other laws protecting animal welfare. This chapter may not be construed to limit any other state laws or rules protecting the welfare of animals or to prevent a local governing body from adopting and enforcing its own animal welfare laws and regulations.
(b)
It is not an affirmative defense to alleged violations of this chapter that the covered animal was kept as part of an agricultural operation and in accordance with customary animal husbandry or farming practices.
(c)
Any person who violates the provisions of this chapter or any rules or regulations promulgated hereunder shall be fined not less than fifty dollars ($50.00) nor exceeding five hundred dollars ($500), or both.
(d)
This chapter shall be construed to supersede § 4-1-3(a) only with respect to the minimum space required for the housing of egg-laying hens.
History of Section.
P.L. 2012, ch. 275, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 285, § 1; P.L. 2018, ch. 348, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1.1 - Unlawful Confinement of a Covered Animal › Section 4-1.1-6. - Severability.

§ 4-1.1-6. Severability.
If any provision of this chapter or the application thereof to any person or circumstances, is held invalid or unconstitutional, that invalidity or unconstitutionality shall not affect other provisions or applications of this chapter that can be given effect without the invalid or unconstitutional provision or application, and to this end the provisions of this chapter are declared to be severable.
History of Section.
P.L. 2012, ch. 275, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 285, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1.2 - Seizure of Animals Being Cruelly Treated › Section 4-1.2-1. - Seizure of animals being cruelly treated.

§ 4-1.2-1. Seizure of animals being cruelly treated.
(a)
The RI state veterinarian, the general/special agent of the RI Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RISPCA), or any duly sworn and authorized state or municipal law enforcement officer may lawfully take charge and possession of any animal found abandoned or neglected or hazardously accumulated as defined in § 4-1-1, or in the opinion of that veterinarian, agent, or officer is aged, maimed, disabled, lame, sick, diseased, injured, unfit for the labor it is performing, or cruelly treated, and may thereupon proceed to provide all necessary care and treatment required or take other appropriate action as determined by a licensed veterinarian.
(b)
Any person authorized to seize an animal pursuant to this section must leave written notice on the property where the animal was seized within twenty-four (24) hours of the seizure. This notice must be left in a location where it is reasonably likely to be found and must include the name, address, telephone number, and signature of the person seizing the animal; the reason for seizing the animal; and the location where the seized animal is being kept pending any order pursuant to § 4-1.2-3. If the address of the animal owner is known, notification through certified mail with return receipt requested shall also be provided.
History of Section.
P.L. 2019, ch. 180, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 242, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1.2 - Seizure of Animals Being Cruelly Treated › Section 4-1.2-2. - Notice of hearing.

§ 4-1.2-2. Notice of hearing.
Any authorized person making a seizure may file with a district court that has jurisdiction over the matter a verified petition plainly stating those facts as to bring such animal within the jurisdiction of the court and praying for appropriate action by the court in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. Upon the filing of the petition, the court shall cause a summons to be issued requiring the owner(s) or person(s) having responsibility for the care of the animal, if known, to appear in court at the time and place named, which summons shall be served not less than fourteen (14) days before the date of the hearing. If the owner(s) or person(s) having responsibility for the care of the animal is not known, notice of the time and place of the hearing shall be given by publication in a newspaper having a circulation in the town in which the officer took charge of the animal not less than fourteen (14) days before the date of the hearing. The court shall further give notice to the petitioner of the time and place of the hearing not less than fourteen (14) days before the date of the hearing.
History of Section.
P.L. 2019, ch. 180, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 242, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1.2 - Seizure of Animals Being Cruelly Treated › Section 4-1.2-3. - Order for temporary care of seized animals.

§ 4-1.2-3. Order for temporary care of seized animals.
(a)
If it appears from the allegations of the petition and other affirmations of fact accompanying the petition, or provided subsequent thereto, that there is reasonable cause to find that the animal’s condition or the circumstances surrounding its care require that its custody be immediately assumed to safeguard its welfare, the court shall either:
(1)
Issue an order to the owner(s) or person(s) having responsibility for the care of the animal to show cause at such time as the court may designate why the court shall not vest in some suitable state, municipal, or other public or private agency or person the animal’s temporary care and custody pending a hearing on the petition; or
(2)
Issue an order vesting in some suitable state, municipal, or other public or private agency or person, the animal’s temporary care and custody, pending a hearing on the petition, which hearing shall be held within ten (10) days from the issuance of the order on the need for such temporary care and custody. The service of the orders may be made by any officer authorized by law to serve process, state police officer, indifferent person, or by certified mail with return receipt requested if the individual lives out of state.
History of Section.
P.L. 2019, ch. 180, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 242, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1.2 - Seizure of Animals Being Cruelly Treated › Section 4-1.2-4. - Posting of bond.

§ 4-1.2-4. Posting of bond.
(a)
If the court issues an order pursuant to § 4-1.2-3 vesting the animal’s temporary care and custody in some suitable state, municipal, or other public or private agency or person, the owner(s) shall either surrender ownership of the animal or post a surety bond or cash bond with the agency or person in whom the animal’s temporary care and custody was vested. The surety bond or cash bond shall be in an amount sufficient to pay the reasonable expenses related to necessary veterinary care, shelter, feeding, and board that is reasonably anticipated to be incurred by the agency or person having temporary care and custody of the animal during the litigation of the process referenced in § 4-1.2-1.
(b)
The surety bond or cash bond shall cover the expenses for a period as decided by the court with subsequent bonds being necessary upon the expiration of the preceding bond until the animal is transferred, returned, or otherwise treated pursuant to § 4-1.2-5. Failure to post the original or subsequent bonds will result in forfeiture of the seized animals, with disposition as provided for pursuant to § 4-1.2-5.
History of Section.
P.L. 2019, ch. 180, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 242, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-1.2 - Seizure of Animals Being Cruelly Treated › Section 4-1.2-5. - Disposition of seized animals.

§ 4-1.2-5. Disposition of seized animals.
(a)
If a seized animal is forfeited or surrendered pursuant to § 4-1.2-4, or after hearing the court finds that the animal is neglected or cruelly treated, it may transfer ownership of the animal in any state, municipal, or other public or private agency that is permitted by law to care for neglected or cruelly treated animals or with any person found to be suitable or worthy of the responsibility by the court.
(b)
If, after hearing, the court finds that the animal is so injured or diseased, the court may order the animal into the care of a licensed veterinarian to provide the animal with appropriate treatment.
(c)
If, after hearing, the court finds that the animal is not neglected or cruelly treated, it may cause the animal to be returned to its owner(s) or person(s) having responsibility for its care or, if the owner(s) or person(s) is unknown or unwilling to resume caring for the animal, it may transfer ownership of the animal in any state, municipal, or other public or private agency or person found to be suitable or worthy of the responsibility.
(d)
If the court renders a final decision under subsection (a) or (b) of this section, the agency or person with whom the bond was posted shall return the balance, if any, of the bond to the owner(s). The amount of the bond to be returned to the owner(s) shall be calculated by dividing the amount of the bond by thirty (30) to establish the daily rate and subtracting the number of days less than thirty (30) that the agency or person has not had temporary care and custody of the animal.
(e)
If the court makes a finding pursuant to subsection (c) of this section after the issuance of an order of temporary care and custody pursuant to § 4-1.2-3 and the owner(s) of the animal has posted a bond pursuant to § 4-1.2-4(b), the agency or person with whom the bond was posted shall return all the bond(s) to the owner(s).
(f)
Unless the court finds that there was no probable cause to institute a complaint that the animal is not neglected or cruelly treated, the expense incurred by the state or a municipality in providing proper food, shelter, and care to an animal it has seized pursuant to this chapter and the expense incurred by any state, municipal, or other public or private agency or person in providing temporary care and custody to an animal pursuant to the provisions of this chapter shall be determined by calculating the average costs from three (3) providers of the necessary equivalent services related to the veterinary care, sheltering, feeding, and board in the state, which was provided to the animal.
History of Section.
P.L. 2019, ch. 180, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 242, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-2 - Commercial Feeds › Section 4-2-2. - Enforcing official.

§ 4-2-2. Enforcing official.
This chapter shall be administered by the director of the department of environmental management of the state or his or her authorized agent, referred to as the director.
History of Section.
P.L. 1977, ch. 170, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-2 - Commercial Feeds › Section 4-2-4. - Registration.

§ 4-2-4. Registration.
(a)
No person shall manufacture a commercial feed in this state, unless he or she has filed with the director on forms provided by the director, his or her name, place of business and location of each manufacturing facility in this state.
(b)
No person shall distribute in this state a commercial feed except a customer formula feed, which has not been registered pursuant to this section. The application for registration, accompanied by a sixty dollar ($60.00) per brand registration fee, shall be submitted in the manner prescribed by the director, on forms furnished by the director. A tag, label, or facsimile for each brand to be registered must accompany the application. Upon approval by the director, the registration shall be issued to the applicant. All registrations expire on the 31st day of December of each year.
(c)
The director is empowered to refuse registration of any commercial feed not in compliance with this chapter and to cancel any registration subsequently found not to be in compliance with any provisions of this chapter provided, that no registration shall be refused or canceled unless the registrant has been given an opportunity to be heard before the director and to amend his or her application in order to comply with the requirements of this chapter.
(d)
Changes of either chemical or ingredient composition of a registered commercial feed may be permitted with no new registration required provided there is satisfactory evidence that those changes would not result in a lowering of the guaranteed analysis of the product for the purpose for which designed, and provided a new label is submitted to the director notifying the director of the change.
(e)
All moneys received by the director under this chapter shall be deposited as general revenues and shall consist of all fertilizer registration and tonnage fees paid pursuant to §§ 2-7-4 and 2-7-6 and fees paid pursuant to § 4-2-4.
(f)
All moneys appropriated for the feed and fertilizer quality testing program shall be made available for the following purposes:
(1)
To support the feed and fertilizer testing laboratory for the testing and analysis of commercial feeds distributed within this state for the expressed purpose of detection of deficiency.
(2)
For payment of ancillary services, personnel and equipment incurred in order to carry out the purposes of quality assurance defined by this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1977, ch. 170, § 2; P.L. 1989, ch. 349, § 2; P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 22, § 2; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 40, § 3; P.L. 2004, ch. 595, art. 33, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-2 - Commercial Feeds › Section 4-2-5. - Labeling.

§ 4-2-5. Labeling.
A commercial feed shall be labeled as follows:
(a)
In the case of a commercial feed, except a customer formula feed, it shall be accompanied by a label bearing the following information:
(1)
The net weight.
(2)
The product name and the brand name, if any, under which the commercial feed is distributed.
(3)
The guaranteed analysis stated in any terms that the director by regulation requires to advise the user of the composition of the feed or to support claims made in the labeling. In all cases, the substances or elements must be determinable by laboratory methods such as the method published by the association of official analytical chemists (AOAC).
(4)
The common or usual name of each ingredient used in the manufacture of the commercial feed. The director by regulation may permit the use of a collective term for a group of ingredients which perform a similar function, or he or she may exempt any commercial feeds, or any group of commercial feeds, from the requirement of an ingredient statement if he or she finds that this statement is not required in the interest of consumers.
(5)
The name and principal mailing address of the manufacturer or the person responsible for distributing the commercial feed.
(6)
Adequate directions for use for all commercial feeds containing drugs and for any other feeds as the director may require by regulation as necessary for their safe and effective use.
(7)
Any precautionary statement that the director by regulation determines is necessary for the safe and effective use of the commercial feed.
(b)
In the case of a customer formula feed, it shall be accompanied by a label, invoice, delivery slip, or other shipping document, bearing the following information:
(1)
Name and address of the manufacturer.
(2)
Name and address of the purchaser.
(3)
Date of delivery.
(4)
The product name and brand name, if any, and the net weight of each registered commercial feed used in the mixture, and the net weight of each other ingredient used.
(5)
Adequate directions for use for all customer formula feeds containing drugs and for any other feeds as the director may require by regulation as necessary for their safe and effective use.
(6)
Any precautionary statements that the director by regulation determines are necessary for the safe and effective use of the customer formula feed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1977, ch. 170, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-2 - Commercial Feeds › Section 4-2-6. - Misbranding.

§ 4-2-6. Misbranding.
A commercial feed is deemed to be misbranded:
(1)
If its labeling is false or misleading in any particular.
(2)
If it is distributed under the name of another commercial feed.
(3)
If it is not labeled as required in § 4-2-5.
(4)
If it purports to be or is represented as a commercial feed, or it purports to contain or is represented as containing a commercial feed ingredient, unless that commercial feed or feed ingredient conforms to the definition, if any, prescribed by regulation by the director.
(5)
If any word, statement, or other information required by or under authority of this chapter to appear on the label or labeling is not prominently placed with the conspicuousness (as compared with other words, statements, designs, or devices in the labeling) and in the terms as to render it likely to be read and understood by the ordinary individual under customary conditions of purchase and use.
History of Section.
P.L. 1977, ch. 170, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-2 - Commercial Feeds › Section 4-2-8. - Prohibited acts.

§ 4-2-8. Prohibited acts.
The following acts and the causing of these acts within the state are prohibited:
(1)
The manufacture or distribution of any commercial feed that is adulterated or misbranded.
(2)
The adulteration or misbranding of any commercial feed.
(3)
The distribution of agricultural commodities such as whole seed, hay, straw, stover, silage, cobs, husks, and hulls, which are adulterated within the meaning of § 4-2-7.
(4)
The removal or disposal of a commercial feed in violation of an order under § 4-2-11.
(5)
The failure or refusal to register in accordance with § 4-2-4.
(6)
Failure to file any report required by this chapter or the regulations promulgated under this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1977, ch. 170, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 4 - Animals and Animal Husbandry › Chapter 4-2 - Commercial Feeds › Section 4-2-9. - Rules and regulations.

§ 4-2-9. Rules and regulations.
(a)
The director is authorized to make appropriate regulations requiring the maintenance of records, as may be deemed necessary, setting forth the number of net tons of commercial feed distributed in the state. The director has the right to examine any records to verify statements of tonnage.
(b)
The director is authorized to promulgate any rules and regulations for commercial feeds and pet foods that are specifically authorized in this chapter and any other reasonable rules and regulations necessary for the efficient enforcement of this chapter. In the interest of uniformity the director shall by regulation adopt, unless he or she determines that they are inconsistent with the provisions of this chapter or are not appropriate to conditions which exist in this state, the following:
(1)
The official definitions of feed ingredients and official feed terms adopted by the association of American feed control officials and published in the official publication of that organization; and
(2)
Any regulations promulgated pursuant to the authority of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. § 301 et seq.); provided, that the director would have the authority under this chapter to promulgate those regulations.
(c)
Before the issuance, amendment, or repeal of any rule or regulation authorized by this chapter, the director shall publish the proposed regulation, amendment, or notice to repeal an existing regulation in a manner reasonably calculated to give interested parties, including all current registrants, adequate notice and shall afford all interested persons an opportunity to present their views, orally or in writing, within a reasonable period of time. After consideration of all views presented by interested persons, the director shall take appropriate action to issue the proposed rule or regulation or to amend or to repeal an existing rule or regulation. The provisions of this subsection notwithstanding, if the director, pursuant to the authority of this chapter, adopts the official definition of feed ingredients or official feed terms as adopted by the association of American feed control officials, or regulations promulgated pursuant to the authority of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. § 301 et seq.), any amendment or modification adopted by the association of American feed control officials or by the secretary of human services in the case of regulations promulgated pursuant to the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. § 301 et seq.), shall be adopted automatically under this chapter without regard to the publication of the notice required by this subsection unless the director, by order, specifically determines that the amendment or modification shall not be adopted.
History of Section.
P.L. 1977, ch. 170, § 2.